micro motors

[sounder]

Hi. Over the years i have hand carved celtic knotwork on frames and made mirrors and picture frames. I haven't carved any in about two years now but i have been thinking about getting back into it lately as i have been out of work so there is lots of time. This time around i wanted to rough out the frames using a small router or laminate trimmer and then clean it all up with a micro motor if possible. From what i have read and looked at a lot of people use the micro motors for feathers and very fine detail work but i am wondering if they can be used to clean up my knotwork carvings. The foredom flex shaft tools seem like i wouldn't have the freedom of movement as much as with a micro motor. I don 't usually carve deeper than about a half inch and the knotwork has many weaves. For the most part i will be using walnut or mahogany. Caving it all by hand just wore me down and took so long not that it wasn't enjoyable a lot of the time. I also thought that a micro motor would help me get a cleaner look also. Any input would be appreciated. Thank you. Bill

[Callynne]

I've never done celtic knots Bill, but I know, for my work, I'd be lost without my microcarver. I do a lot of very tiny detail work and it works perfectly for me.

You're correct in your reasoning about the flexshaft versus a micromotor. Not only is the handpiece better, but the RPM is higher, so you get a much cleaner cut.

Just don't forget a dust mask, safety glasses and a dust collector.....you absolutely have to have all three of those (plus I wear ear protection). Good luck!! Deborah

[sounder]

thank you for the advice.