Class description
Course Overview:
Marquetry is the art of making pictures with various coloured woods. There are several methods of achieving the end product, and this intensive weekend masterclass focuses exclusively on the technique of double bevel marquetry, one of the most precise and visually striking methods in decorative woodworking.
Designed for woodworkers, furniture makers, and designers who already have some experience with veneers or fine handwork, this two-day course offers a rare opportunity to build a deep, transferable understanding of double bevel marquetry: the method behind flowing curves, pictorial inlay, and complex compositions with virtually no visible gaps. When the cutting is right, the eye reads the finished panel as a picture rather than individual pieces of timber.
Rather than working toward a single finished piece, the course is structured to give you real technical mastery. You’ll complete two projects, each suitable for use in a box lid or butler’s tray, covering the essential components of the technique from first cut to finished panel.
Why You’ll Love This Class:
- Precision that speaks for itself. Learn how controlled double bevel cutting creates perfectly fitting joints that flow together without filler or compromise. The result is work where every piece sits so tightly that the joins all but disappear.
- Two complete projects. You’ll finish the weekend with two marquetry panels ready to incorporate into your own future work: box lids, trays, furniture pieces, or framed work.
- Expert instruction from a specialist. Peter Young has spent decades refining his practice in traditional European marquetry. His methodical teaching style and deep technical knowledge make complex techniques genuinely learnable.
- Small group, focused learning. With a maximum of 8 students, you’ll receive personalised guidance throughout both days.
- Skills that transfer. The emphasis throughout is on understanding the process, so you can apply it independently to your own designs long after the weekend is over.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the weekend, you will be able to:
- Understand the principles and geometry behind double bevel marquetry
- Confidently cut and fit double bevel joints with accuracy and consistency
- Control saws for curved and complex marquetry work
- Select and prepare veneers for optimal cutting and visual effect, using the natural colour and grain of different species to build depth without dye or paint
- Apply sand shading to give a strong three-dimensional effect, creating convincing shadow and form in the finished work
- Diagnose and correct common fitting and alignment issues
- Apply the technique independently to your own future projects, designs, or furniture work
Course Content and Structure:
Across the two days, you’ll complete two projects specifically chosen to build on each other and cover the essential components of double bevel marquetry in a logical progression. Working under Peter’s direct instruction, you’ll develop saw control for curved and complex work, learn to select and prepare veneers for both cut quality and visual effect, apply sand shading to create convincing depth and dimension, and work through the fitting and alignment challenges that separate competent marquetry from excellent marquetry.
You’ll see how the natural colour variation between veneer species can be used to build a full tonal range, and how sand shading adds a sense of light and shadow that gives flat veneer work genuine three-dimensional form.
Emphasis is placed on accuracy, saw control, material handling, and problem-solving. These are the core skills that underpin high-quality marquetry, and the focus throughout is on understanding the process, not just completing the projects, so you leave with skills you can apply independently to your own designs.
Hands-On Experience:
This is a hands-on masterclass throughout. There is no passive observation. From the first session, you’ll be cutting, fitting, and refining under direct instruction. Peter provides personalised feedback at each stage, ensuring that every participant leaves with a genuine grasp of the technique rather than simply a completed project.
About Peter Young:
Peter Young is a highly respected marquetry artist and educator with decades of experience in fine woodworking and decorative veneer work. His practice is grounded in traditional European techniques, with a particular focus on precision hand-cut marquetry and double bevel methods. Peter has taught extensively in specialist workshops and schools, and is known for his clear, methodical teaching style and deep technical knowledge. His work reflects a strong balance between craftsmanship, design sensitivity, and a thorough understanding of materials. He is committed to passing these skills on to the next generation of makers.
Join Us and Refine Your Craft:
Sign up for the Double Bevel Marquetry Masterclass and spend a weekend developing a precise, transferable skill with a highly respected marquetry specialist. Whether you’re looking to incorporate marquetry into your furniture work, your box making, or your own decorative practice, this course offers the technical foundation to do it properly. A marquetry panel can turn a well-made box into something people stop and look at. Places are strictly limited to 8 students. Book your spot now and start cutting with confidence.
