The positive and negative of map making.

When a wood map is successfully scrollsawn, it’s a positive and negative experience. Let me explain. 🙂

A lot of the projects we build involve naturally weathered wood, especially the scroll sawn maps. When the stars align in the universe and the wood grain co-operate, we are able to produce two maps from one cutting.

The process starts with fitting up pieces to make a panel.

Then there is a bit of sanding involved. But doesn’t every wood project involve some sanding?

Once the glued up panel is ready, we build the frame and then do the placement of the map.

Next we get on to the business of scroll sawing the map from the panel. With some luck we will hopefully get two maps from the efforts made in one cutting. We try to ensure knots are not along the cutting path. Knots can be cut through with some effort but they can be unstable at times after cutting. Best to avoid them if possible.

This time around we have luck on our side and able to produce two maps. The map we pull out of the panel we call a ‘positive’ map. The remaining panel we call a ‘negative’ map. The reference goes back to the days of photography and producing photos from negatives. One is the opposite of the other, yet they represent the same.

Glue and nails is mostly what we use to build the projects. You have to be careful though and avoid blowing a nail through the project. It happens.

What you can end up with after a days work are some pretty nice projects.

Check out the video we made of the building of these two maps.

Have questions or comments? Let us know below!