Traditional Stone Finishing Techniques 6- Finishing raised Shape Carving detail with Hand Axing

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This project was manufactured and shape carved by a major manufacturer. He enlisted Button to hand tool the raised pine cones & branches detail to better define these ornate elements. In the past, this was typical in-house work for larger operations. It was produced using the variety of specialists employed within a given company. In the 21st Century, specialty work like this is more likely to be subcontracted to an experienced professional like Button.

Using pneumatic hammer and carbide chisels, Button worked to sharpen the transitions between the panel or ground and various raised elements. Using the same pneumatic hammer and spade carbide-tipped drills, additional value was developed in a number of areas by drilling holes to create more absolute shadows. This helped the pine cones look more like a natural assembly of many pieces. Along with providing precise definition where the ground and branches meet, hand axing the branches helps the surface look more like bark. This better differentiates them from the frosted face of the die. Since the panel and carving work were already done, this additional finish process only required a limited amount of studio time to complete.

Custom work requires full attention to all detail. After finishing, the raised detail in the face of this memorial was much better defined and more visible. The best work requires the best method and the best workers.