Making a Floral Trivet

Designing is an obsession for me. As a kid I sat on the beach in Wisconsin and sketched to the sound of the waves. Now, years later, my options have increased thanks to computers so I’m into doodling, cartooning, animating, and creating 3-D models, but I’m still listening to the waves pound at the beach—this time on Maui. Something about being near the water inspires me.

My designs have their roots in the old engravers, like Albrecht Dürer, Gustave Doré, and William Blake, as well as Art Nouveau and Baroque art. I enjoy the smell and feel of the wood and often imagine I can still feel life within it. Creating something out of wood for utility or beauty brings me a sense of satisfaction that feeds my spirit.

The large open frets make this pattern ideal for beginners. You can use the stylized tulip design in a number of ways. Cut a single pattern to use as a trivet. Stack-cut and group two or more images to make an interesting wall display. Cut four patterns, connect them in a rectangle, and add a bottom to form a luminary. The pattern resizes well, and the simple design is easy to stack-cut from paper to make cards or tags. Before scrolling this floral trivet, create a magnetic blade holder out of scrap wood to keep your blades organized while your scroll.

Materials

• Cherry, 1/2″ to 3/4″ (1.3cm to 1.9cm)-thick: 5-1/8″ x 8″ (13cm x 20.3cm)

• Sandpaper

• Finish of choice

Tools

• Scroll saw with blades: #5 reverse-tooth

An artist since his childhood, Brian Dahlen co-wrote three books of scroll saw patterns with Patrick Spielman. In addition to woodworking, Brian enjoys cartooning and animation.

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