Frequently Asked Questions about engraving and
my services:
Q. Will the engraving affect the sound of the horn?
A. No, the engraving does not affect the sound of the instrument at all.
Q. How long does it take you to do a horn?
A. Most jobs can be completed in a day, although I prefer 2-3 if possible. To make sure your horn is done quickly, make sure you give me advance notice so I can schedule it in.
Q. Can you do lettering or custom images?
A. I can do some block lettering, but as a general rule do not. Lettering is a completely different discipline than artistic engraving and usually requires custom equipment to hold the instrument in place. Since I work on horns that are completely assembled, I don't have the freedom that manufacturers do when instruments are first made. I can do some pictoral work, depending on the complexity. Because the engraving cuts are with a flat tip, the kind of shading needed for most pictoral scenes doesn't turn out all that well. I will be doing some pictoral work and posting samples in the near future.
Q. Do you ever make mistakes? And, if so, what do you do about it?
A. Yes, I do make mistakes, generally as a result of the blade slipping on a steep curve or uneven part of the finish or metal. Areas that have been stressed or repaired are particularly problematic. When I slip, I can usually incorporate it into my design. In extreme cases, there will be nothing I can do to cover it up, and it will appear as a scratch on the horn. This is most likely on the interior of the bell rim, because of the stressed brass, deep angle, and inability to reach the interior for covering it up. In such an extreme case, I would ask the owner what they want me to do and I would complete the job to the owner's original specifications at no cost other than the shipping costs back. That said, slips are very rarely visible, even to the trained eye.
Q. You engrave over the existing finish, so what happens to the engraving once it is exposed to the air for a while? Does it affect the surrounding lacquer?
A. Over time, the engraving will oxidize and darken, just like other areas where the lacquer or plating has been worn down. If you desire, you can easily brighten it back again with a product such as Brasso, or simply let it darken. Because the engravers are so sharp, the surrounding finish is unaffected. It won't cause premature loss of finish, and should look no different than a factory engraved horn.
Q. Do you teach other people how to engrave?
A. Yes, I do. You can e-mail me to work out specifics.
more FAQ on the way....
updated 3/26/2003