Chisaning

Chisaning is a decorative technique used in various crafts, most notably in metalworking and woodworking. The term itself derives from the French word "châssis," meaning frame or casing, which hints at its historical application in creating ornamental borders and casings.

In metalworking, chisaning involves using specialized chisels to incise, carve, or shape metal surfaces. This can create intricate patterns, textures, or relief designs. Traditional chisaning tools are often hand-forged and vary in shape and size to achieve different effects. The process requires a high degree of skill and precision, as mistakes are difficult to rectify on metal. Examples of chisaning in metalwork can be found in ancient armor, jewelry, and decorative architectural elements.

In woodworking, chisaning refers to the use of chisels to carve or shape wood. This can range from creating simple grooves and rebates to elaborate sculptural forms and decorative inlays. Wood chisels are sharpened to a fine edge and are typically struck with a mallet or pushed by hand to remove wood. Chisaning is a fundamental technique in traditional joinery and is also widely employed in the creation of fine furniture, decorative carvings, and musical instruments. The type of wood and the sharpness of the chisel significantly influence the outcome of the chisaning process.