Mother of Pearl Tools/Book advice?

[bjordan]

I've ordered a knife kit from knifekits.com. I can't wait to receive it!!

I'm planning to use MOP and carbon fiber on it. I have a few questions about a jig and book I found.

Here is the jig
Pearl Cutting Jig

Does anyone have any expirence with this jig or something similar? At first I was just going to order a jewelers saw. That's how I ran across this jig. Since it comes with the saw and the other peices I thought I might just order the complete jig, since the price isn't too bad. Any advice? What do you guys think?

Also has anyone read this book?
Pearl Inlay Book
If so what do you think of it? It appears to be geared more toward inlaying pearl in insturments, but I figured the techniques translate to knife handle inlaying as well.

I found a lot of helpful information about working with MOP on the forum. Thanks! I can't wait to start working with it.

Thanks in advance,
bjordan

 

[Shakudo]

cutting jig, just a piece of 3/8ths wood. pump from wherever, aquarium filter pump. jewelers saw and blades. the scribe can be picked up at any good hardware store.transfer can be made with carbon paper . as far as the book goes,try your local library to see if they can get a book on marquetry before spending money. you may not want to do this type of embellishment after a while.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

All you need is a jewelers saw with #1 or#2 blades.The "jig" is just a piece of thin plywood clamped/screwed to a firm bench.Let a little stick out and saw the pearl on it.A 2" deep,narrow "V" notch is good to hold the pearl over for sawing,or just cut the wood with the pearl.A jewelers bench pin only costs about $5.The book is for inlay work,mostly guitars.I agree with Shakudo,a marquetry book would be more useful.Remember that the dust is somewhat toxic,so wear a respirator.