Point Carver Systems
Specifically Designed for Jade Carving and Forming
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The principle of point carvers is a mounted shaft with which one is able to attach a multitude of differing tools or heads.
It is the most versatile tool for hand working many media from wood, to metal as in sculptured works or simply for finishing jewelry items, or even plastics.
Of all the essential tools one could possess with which to carve jade, or any hard stone for that matter, the Point Carver would have to be the prime piece of machinery to develop skills with. The variety of applications with this simple system is multifold. From an elementary, simple jade pendant which could be carved from slab to finished neck-piece. Often with far greater success than may achieved with a suspended flexible shaft or micro-motor handpiece. Not to say it would always be as efficient timewise. That is not always the case. However, there are instances where no comparable alternatives exist.
Remember the Chinese developed this system something like 7000 years ago! Which is still employed today, albeit now electrically powered.
In the mid ’60’s, Peter Hughson, the originator of contemporary jade carving NZ, used nothing more than an electric drill held in a vise on the bench and carved some amazing pieces with this technique. Technology is somewhat more advanced today although the basic principle of carving jade is still the same.
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Carving in China today with the powered point carver common in jade workshops.
Jade Carving
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A simple unite for the Western world of contemporary jade carving.
The shaft from this saw spindle or arbour has been removed and a new one turned up to thread on a half inch, keyless chuck which is able to accommodate numerous tools from a small 1mm diamond plated burr to an 8 inch grind wheel.
A three step pulley arrangement provides adequate speed variation.
Point Carver for Jade
Any competent engineer will be able to turn and fit the necessary shaft.
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Another example of adapted arbor.
Basic Jade Point Carver
Even simpler is this plumber block mounting. The most basic way to build an efficient machine.
Simple Jade Carving Machine
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Another very inexpensive alternative is this 12mm, five speed drill press which is converted to another purpose.
Point Carver
The inflatable drum in this picture is an important accessory to sanding and polishing jades.
Sanding Drum Set
The kit comes in three sizes with sleeves for sanding wood and metals.
For using with jade, silicon carbide or diamond belts will be required.
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The post cut short and mounted on a plate and support.
Very efficient and extremely portable.
Point Carver Drillpress
The same unit evolved with a splash guard made from an old, plastic bucket.
Drill Press Point Carver
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Lew Wackler Point Carver
Don’t be deceived by the size of this unit. It is deceptively efficient, powerful, extremely quiet, and has a surprising capacity to turn larger tools.
The speed range is impressive with a combination of pulley belt adjustment and dial regulator as well.
Accuracy is awesome.
Professional carvers will appreciate the high tech quality Lew builds into these amazing units although the initial cost may be prohibitive for some.
Lew will gladly respond to any requests for information by contacting him HERE
Lew’s Point Carver Machine
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