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As a math teacher, now retired, I have always been enchanted with the beauty of geometric forms and the magic of trigonometry. In 1986 I started playing with veneer to make small decorative wall hangings After several years I expanded from the flat two dimensional hangings to small three dimensional ornaments. I've not found anyone else using veneer to make the three dimensional geometric forms so I've adapted my own tools and developed the processes that the materials require. I really enjoy designing ornaments based on classic geometric solids and the almost endless variations possible by combining form and the woods used. In 2008 I started showing and selling the ornaments in several local arts and craft fairs and enjoy it immensely. I hope to expand my offerings to include some wall hangings and also expand geographically over the next few years. The contrasts and richness of various woods compliment the pleasing symmetrical forms of the Platonic and Archimedean solids from classical geometry. I know that most of what I do can be done without doing the math, but to me the math just adds one more dimension to the object's beauty and provides a wonderful platform for discussing the relationships of geometry, trigonometry and art. Since the ornaments are made from thin veneer they are hollow and therefore very light, from three to five ounces each, yet surprisingly sturdy. Most of the woods that I use are non- endangered domestic and the few exotics I use are gleaned from the scrap pile of a veneer wholesaler in New York. Backwoods Parquetry by
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with geometric designs. Many of the designs were inspired from quilt patterns and some of my favorites were discovered in a book illustrating Victorian era parquet floor patterns. Some of the math used in making these designs was ingenious. So far I've not offered any of the wall hangings for sale but have given many as gifts to friends and family. 
