Carved Fretwork Series

[DickMira]

To see all of the projects, scroll to the end of this post

 

At the end of December, a friend gave me a collection of hardwood cutoffs including maple, mahogany, and poplar boards that varied from 1", 2' and 3" in thickness.  I was overwhelmed by all the choices and couldn't decide which project I wanted to do next.  I studied the selections in the Scrollsaw Village Pattern Library and found five patterns that would be great for carved fretwork projects.  I have always worked on one project at a time and decided to try something new and work on all five projects at once and vary which piece I was working on.

Start by adhering the pattern to the wood with 3 M Super 77 adhesive.                                                                                                                                                       

Drill vertical pilot holes with a drill press.                                                                                                                                                                                                       

Cut all scroll work with New Spiral 1 and 3 blades by Flying Dutchman.                                                                                                                                                   

Carve the scrolled fretwork with a Foredom Rotary Carver using various bits and cutters. 

Add color with artist oil and acrylic paints.                                                                                                                    

Sand and finish with Minwax Wipe on Poly.                                                                                                                                                                                           

Backers for pieces 2,4,and 5 were made from 1/4" luan sprayed with satin black paint. 

This first project, Tiny Kitten, was designed by Steve Curtis and cut on a mahogany board 11" x 11" x 2" thick.  The other 4 projects will be posted on the forum each week.      Thanks,    Dick Mira

 

Edited April 19 by DickMira

[Scrappile]

That is a great piece.  I love seeing your carved pieces.  Got one I want to try some carving on.   Probably will make a mess of it, but for me it is only a hobby done for fun.

I am anxious to see the rest of you the pieces you are working on.

[DickMira]

Thanks Paul for your kind words which are greatly appreciated.  One of my recommendations is to start with one of your least liked old scroll saw projects.  If it doesn't come out as you wish a lot is not lost.  If it looks good, you will be pleased with how it enhances your fine scrollwork.

[rjweb]

Excellent craftsmanship, RJ

[barb.j.enders]

Looks great.

[DickMira]

Thanks, RJ, for the best compliment any woodworker can receive.  Dick

[DickMira]

Barb Enders  I appreciate your long standing interest in my work.  Special thanks!

[DickMira]

CARVED FRETWORK SERIES   CF 02

This project of a Pennsylvania White-tailed Buck was done on a 21" x 12" x 1" thick piece of mahogany with a pattern by one of the best designers in the Scrollsaw Village Pattern Library, Jim Blume.

 

[daveww1]

beautiful work

[Denny Knappen]

Your carved fretwork is a work of art.  That Kitten is special.

[DickMira]

Thanks Denny, for your kind words about this little kitten.  I am still waiting to see what you created with the reclaimed American chestnut boards I had sent to you   Regards, Dick

Edited April 17 by DickMira

[rdatelle]

You have some fine carvings there. There all beautiful. I wouldn't know where to start/

[DickMira]

17 hours ago, rdatelle said:

You have some fine carvings there. There all beautiful. I wouldn't know where to start/

Thanks Ralph, for the very nice comments.  You would start this technique like I did...with your first one.  I usually recommend that you start with your least liked scrolled piece...we all have one of these

[Sycamore67]

As always, excellent work and creativity.

[DickMira]

12 minutes ago, Sycamore67 said:

As always, excellent work and creativity.

I appreciate your wonderful comments, Larry.  Thanks, Dick

[Denny Knappen]

On 4/16/2025 at 11:39 AM, DickMira said:

Thanks Denny, for your kind words about this little kitten.  I am still waiting to see what you created with the reclaimed American chestnut boards I had sent to you   Regards, Dick

Oh my, Dick, I have forgotten all about them.  Must be old age.

[DickMira]

CARVED FRETWORK SERIES  CF 03

This piece I call  "WAGONTRAIN WEST" was designed by Grandpa and cut from white poplar 18 1/2" x 11 1/4" x 2" thick.

Pattern can be found in the Scrollsaw Village Pattern Library.

[Allen levine]

wowser, that is some beautiful pieces of art. 

[DickMira]

CARVED FRETWORK SERIES   CF 04

This little cutie is called "My Maltese Puppy" designed by Holder Botas and the pattern can be found in the Scrollsaw Village Pattern Library. This piece is cut from a mahogany board that is 11" x 11" x2"

He wants to wish everyone a very happy and blessed Easter.  He said he is available to help you hunt for Easter eggs.

Edited April 18 by DickMira

[barb.j.enders]

Wow!  

[DickMira]

CARVED FRETWORK SERIES    CF 05

This fifth project is called "New England Lighthouse"  showing the wreckage of boats at the base of the hill where the lighthouse is constructed  near the waters edge from a pattern by Jim Blume in the Scrollsaw Village Pattern Library.

Thanks to all the woodworkers who followed this series.   Dick Mira

 

[wombatie]

Amazing pieces.  The light house is my favorite.  Well done.

Marg

[DickMira]

Thanks for the nice comment, Marg.  Glad you liked it.  Do you have many lighthouses in Australia?  It was good to hear from you again,   Dick