Wood engraver: what it is, how it works, application

Engraver is the name of the device that is used for processing surfaces of durable material, including wood. With the help of such a device give shape to wooden workpieces, put on them patterns and inscriptions, make decorative elements for furniture, picture frames and other similar products. On the right choice of graver depends on how easy, accurate and safe will be the work.

Engraver Principle

Hand tool is very similar to a small drill and functions in a similar way. The gearbox from the electric motor drives the nozzle. The craftsman holds the handle in the palm of his hand and with the use of the nozzle performs a specific task. In contrast to the drill, the engraver has a smaller size and weight - from 0.5 to 2 kg, but some models of professional equipment can weigh up to 8 kg.

Types of engraver nozzles

The shape and material of the engraver nozzle depends on what task is planned to perform. The main types of working elements of the wood engraver:

• carbide cutters;
• abrasive discs;
• serrated blades;
• nozzles for grinding and polishing;
• drills with ball tip;
• drills with different diameters.

The cutter is capable of machining wood as well as other materials such as ceramic, stone, and even steel. Sanding tips have different grit and shape, as well as wire brushes also differ in shape and degree of softness of the nap.

Graver selection criteria

The handle is the first thing you should pay attention to. Due to the fact that working with wood is a long and laborious process, the handle must be comfortable and have an anatomic design that fits your palm size.

Rubberized elements to improve grip and reduce vibration are not superfluous. Besides, the hand sweats and the tool trembles, and this increases the risk of the tool slipping out of your hands. The rubber inserts will help hold the device in place.

The power of the motor is the next important point. A good engraver provides the optimal number of revolutions and withstands significant loads, because the device will have to work for a long time up to several hours.

The carver can work both on battery and from the mains. Engravers running on the mains are cheaper. The presence of a cord is the only thing that distinguishes them from their battery-powered counterparts. The other characteristics are identical, so there is no point in overpaying.

How to carve wood with an engraver

When choosing a workpiece for artistic work with an engraver tool, it is best to give preference to wood of lime, beech, alder or pear. Pine and ash are not suitable for such a purpose, because a drawing or a fine ornament on such material will not work.

The image is transferred from the stencil to the workpiece through a carbon copy, or is applied directly to the surface with a dark pencil. Areas for subsequent notching are shaded. The wood is wiped with alcohol beforehand.

It is important to properly prepare the working surface. It must be flat, stable, clean and well lit. It is necessary to make sure that the sleeves of clothing do not interfere. Long hair is gathered into a bundle and protective glasses are worn.