Webster’s dictionary defines intarsia as:

a mosaic of wood fitted and glued into a wooden support popular in 15^th century Italy for decoration; also: the art or process of making such work.

Intarsia begins with a mosaic or puzzle type pattern that is transposed onto wood which is then cut out with a scroll or band saw. The wood pieces are then sanded and/or contoured to the desired look. Each piece is then glued to a backing and sprayed or brushed with a clear coat. The purist of intarsia use no stains on the wood. Due to the various shades in wood and contouring techniques, each intarsia project is a one-of-a-kind piece.