Again, no power tools allowed.

[formariz 12,300]

After both faces are planed and yoke’s final shape is refined the last structural  part is to mortise in the metal reinforcing pieces on the ends of yoke. These are traditional in this style of yoke. They were always steel pieces many times recycled from something else. Since I have more resources than they did back then I am partial to bronze which is what I use being also about 3/16 thick. Their function is to reinforce yoke against cracks at the ends although ironically many times they were the cause of them . They restrict wood movement causing cracks . Much of the wood used on them was still green and moved substantially. 
 

 Bronze piece is to be shaped to match ends of yoke .

 

 I use tape on the end to copy the shape of thickness leaving only about 1/4” to the faces. 

 

 Tape is removed and transferred to the metal to be cut to match. 

 

 Metal is then shaped to end profile and inserted flush with end.

[wallfish 18,652]

1 hour ago, formariz said:

bronze

A very nice touch as the bronze and wood go together like peanut butter and jelly.

[formariz 12,300]

Now that the structural part of yoke is completed, the tedious process of the embellishments start. Both sides  are carved . Ordinarily the back receives more modest carvings many times looking “rushed” ,but in mine they are equal to the front , or different but of similar quality. The design of the pierced areas has  now been transferred to the back . First the pierced areas have to be trimmed to  the line and totally cleaned within their thickness. This is time consuming since one has to be concerned with the other side at the same time. This is done by carefully trimming with the appropriate gouges ensuring clean crisp lines specially at tight areas which many times require specially modified tools.  It has to of course be done from both sides. 

 

 To be able to see the opposite side I elevate yoke from bench. This allows me to have a “floating “ light on other side which shows clearly the quality of the cut being done. In addition I use also a “ floating” mirror on which I can see the line on other side. First I trim to the line on each side leaving a high part in center , taking care of that last. Raising the work in this manner also keeps work clean since chips fall onto table. 

 Yoke is raised on table allowing chips to fall off work.

 

 Floating mirror and light behind yoke

 

 Mirror allows viewing lines on back side

 

 Back lighting allows one to see clearly quality of cut in the thickness.

 

 Mirror is attached to a weight by a string allowing it to be moved

 

 Crisp lines, sharp inside corners, and sharp points are crucial. 

 

 

 

Edited 8 hours ago by formariz