The Marquetry Shack

Why the marquetry shack? because this is where I do all my work!

Approach

All my work is produced using traditional hand cutting methods (the "window" technique). I do not use a laser as the work I do specialises in hand production.  I have hundreds of veneers and I see the art of marquetry as using the natural grain of wood and the tones it can create. I am responsible for the whole artistic process from design, choice of veneers and cutting. I then hand over to professional layers and finishers to complete the process, allowing me more time for the creative work, and ensuring a world class finish - first from Sean at http://www.veneeringsolutionsltd.co.uk then over to Tim at http://www.totalwoodfinishing.co.uk These guys are the best! Some of the pictures in my gallery are over thirty years old and unlike me they improve with age!  

Testimonials

If like me you are tired of seeing fake reviews or testimonials wherever you look, you will be pleased to know that the following are all genuine and can be independently verified. You can ask me for the contact details of anyone you wish to double check or, for the majority of later reviews (all 5 star), you can check my page at Yell.com - https://www.yell.com/biz/the-marquetry-shack-stockport-7547057/ 

"We recently acquired some marquetry crafted by Ian Smith. The subject is taken from the painting 'A Young Man at his Window' by the French impressionist Gustave Caillebotte. We are delighted to own such a skilful piece which is exceptionally well crafted and beautifully finished" -- Ray and Brenda Stokes, Perth, Western Australia.

"Ian Smith crafts marquetry to a most exquisite level. The delicate finish and artistic blend of colours and natural grain give depth and movement to his intricate pictures. The result is lifelike, emotive and nothing short of breathtaking. Most definitely the best marquetry I have come across." -- Mirriam Lawton, Lancashire, England.

"The Marquetry Shack is a hidden gem in the crafting community, run by long-time educator and artist Ian Smith. Ian is a craftsman in the truest sense of the word. He - - chooses to do all his projects by hand - just the way we like it!" Roarockit, Canada

"A master in his craft" Good Art Guide

"Heritage skills with a contemporary twist" HandmadeinBritain

"World class marquetry from a master of the art; original subjects and nobody else reflects contemporary themes so well" Usman Khan, Lahore, Punjab

"I am lucky enough to own one of Ian's pieces of artwork. A visitor to our house thought it was a computerised image printed onto a piece of polished wood! He couldn't believe it was hand crafted marquetry. I was once told that there are craftsmen who do something they love but then there are craftsmen who do something they love and get it right. Ian has certainly got it right.  Superb" Tom, Manchester (Yell tag OrangeSoap33-1)

"Superb Craftsmanship.  I've been lucky enough to see one of Ian's custom installations in the U.S. and to follow his work online for several years. His work is spectacularly crafted, and I look forward to having a Marquetry Shack original of my own very soon! "   (Yell tag GoldBox61-2)  

"Marquetry Shack Brilliance!  I commissioned Ian to produce a marquetry replication of a photograph from Australia. The journey was a joy from the start. I am still amazed at the likeness of me and my guitar resulting. The attention to detail and skill of matching veneer colours and textures to the image has produced a unique and wonderful work of art; a one of a kind. I highly recommend the Marquetry Shack and Ian as a world class artisan. In a world full of mass produced and quickly replicated produce, Ian’s work is something to behold. Highly recommended."  Rowan, Australia.

"Artistry at its finest. Ian Smith has a unique ability as an artist to take a natural substance and transform it in to a masterpiece of fine art, a truly talented individual and in every sense of the word a truly passionate artist"       (Yell tag ChrisM-1139)

"Fabulous. Fantastic workmanship bringing pictures to life. Excellent communication which ensures you get exactly what you want."     (Yell tag SusanK-94)

"Ian Smith - another great achievement!  Absolutely amazing. A brilliant exhibition, a talented and skilled artist! Marquetry as never seen before! Worth a visit - I’m defo going to buy one! Thank you x"     (Yell tag GillH-71)

"Fantastic handicraft!  Absolutely amazed by how detailed the piece is! So much time and effort must have gone into it. Also the fact that it's done by hand makes it that much more special. Thanks again Ian!"         (Yell tag JosephS-73)

"Excellent skills and craftsmanship, the attention to detail and the quality of work is remarkable. If you’re looking for a bespoke commissioned piece of marquetry art then I recommend The Marquetry Shack"  (Yell tag StuartG-143)

"Fantastic art by an outstanding well travelled artist. I love that there is a story behind each piece. Ian is clearly passionate about his art and the stories behind it. Fabulous!"     (Yell tag MandyS-101)

"Fabulous! The interpretation in the natural colours and grains of wood are exceptional. So perceptively perfect with colour tones that bring the subject to life. Soooo good!!! "     (Yell tag ScarletCoin82-2)

"The range and depth of this work are stunning. Hard to believe it is done through veneers of wood. Ian is a true artist who clearly loves his work. and no subject seems to be beyond him."    (Yell tag MaroonPan66)