Wood Patch Work of Karnataka

This is a very popular craft in Karnataka and is widely practised. Rosewood inlay work is done using wood shavings of various shades and hues; chips or shavings obtained when elaborate woodwork is done is used for the craft. The pattern is traced into a piece of rosewood suitable in suitably shape and size. Then wood chips in differing shades of brown, yellow and beige are used to fill in the pattern. Elements requiring other hues are created by painting directly on to the picture. This wood collage is assembled very carefully as the chips chosen have to be inset neatly. The whole picture is then given a veneer of polish, making it rich and glossy. The themes found in wood patchwork include rural scenes, historical depictions, religious figures, deities and vivid examples of nature in all its scenic beauty.