Thumb on the side vs finger on the top

Sam · Jul 26, 2014

An observation I have made with students is the difference in shading cuts between those who hold the handpiece the traditional way with the thumb on the side of the graver versus those who place their index finger on the top of the graver. The finger-on-top users can sometimes cause too much downward pressure which can make it extremely difficult to achieve the micro-thin startup to shading lines. Keep this in mind if you're struggling with shading and not getting a super thin taper at startup.

Arnaud Van Tilburgh · Jul 26, 2014

Thanks Sam, I already came to this conclusion.
One other thing about fine shading I recently found out is that NOT all shading lines need power assist.
I fact it is like trying to do a Bulino scene using power assist.

arnaud

SamW · Jul 26, 2014

Whilst I didn't do so for the same conclusion, I place my thumb on the side as an anchor on the metal that helps for placement of the point and control of depth as well as speed of cut and control of the cut direction. In one word...Control!

Sam · Jul 26, 2014

Arnaud Van Tilburgh said:
Thanks Sam, I already came to this conclusion.
One other thing about fine shading I recently found out is that NOT all shading lines need power assist.
I fact it is like trying to do a Bulino scene using power assist.

arnaud

I agree Arnaud. There are plenty of times I use a push graver for the finest detail like crosshatching or really delicate cuts. I can make myself use power assist, but there are times when it's simply not the best choice for my work. Not sure if other engravers experience this or not.

Sam · Jul 26, 2014

SamW said:
Whilst I didn't do so for the same conclusion, I place my thumb on the side as an anchor on the metal that helps for placement of the point and control of depth as well as speed of cut and control of the cut direction. In one word...Control!

I with ya, Sam. Thumb on the side gives me far better control. I've had plenty of students who simply couldn't engrave that way though. Obviously it's the end result that counts.

don hicks · Jul 26, 2014

Once again Sam you are coming through with little tips that will save us fledgling engravers a lot of trial and error to discover. Thanks
Regards
Don

GTJC460 · Jul 26, 2014

I actually use a "pinch" style grip on the graver. My thumb and index finger pinch the graver from the sides. I find this gives me the greatest control.

When I do heavier engraving like bright cutting and flare, my grip is slightly different where I do apply downward pressure with the index finger.

Marrinan · Jul 27, 2014

I use the traditional thumb on the side, left thumb acting as brake, The index finger works opposite the thumb for grip and convenience (got a put it somewhere). Fred

Eugene Carkoski · Jul 27, 2014

Thanks guys, I need all the help I can find, my shading looks like a bad hair day

SamW · Jul 27, 2014

"Not sure if other engravers experience this or not. "

I use a push graver for not only delicate cuts but even in cleaning out deep background, and lots of places in between. There are times (more and more often) that it just feels right.

Pedroc · Jul 27, 2014

I always use the thumbnail for better control, but sometimes, when need more speed (time is money)
then I use the other way.

Pedroc · Jul 27, 2014

I'm talking about power assist. Whit hand push always thumb on the side

monk · Jul 27, 2014

lately i've sort of lost my mind. i find i'm using the scope less & less. have also reduced my reliance on the mini jackhammers. i have always liked the "feel" of push graving. getting less done & feeling better about it . the finger placement isn't chiseled in granite for me. for me, placement depends upon what i'm cutting-- hard, soft. deep, or shallow.

dlilazteca · Jul 27, 2014

When doing firearms, there are just times it must be finger on top.

Saludos,

Carlos

jerrywh · Jul 29, 2014

I would like to see a photo of what you describe as thumb on the side. I don't know if i'm doing that or not. most of the time my index finger is on the metal and I use my left thumb against my right thumb for a brake.

Big-Un · Jul 29, 2014

It makes sense to use a "tripod" form when engraving. I use it almost always, especially when under the microscope as it lessons errant movement. Must be stable, but it seems I need to be more careful as my fingers seem to get in the way of the scope.

Bill

jerrywh · Jul 29, 2014

I deleted this post. I must have been thinking of another video. I'm not getting old. I am old.

Thumb on the side vs finger on the top

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