Having shown the methods of cutting out and veneering, we need now only show the method used to produce that shady brown edge, on works inlaid with white holly, and which, when well executed, has a very pleasing and ornamental effect; the method is as follows: -

Into a shallow iron or tin pot, put a sufficient quantity of fine dry sand, to be level with the top edge of it; place it on the fire till it is quite hot, then having your veneer cut out to the required pattern, dip the edges into the hot sand, and let them remain till the heat has made them quite brown; but be careful not to burn them; it is best to bring them to a proper colour, by repeatedly renewing the operation, than all at once, as you then do not injure the texture of the wood, and by immersing more or less of the edge, you produce a shaded appearance to your satisfaction. I would here recommend the workman, previous to beginning the operation, to have his pattern before him, shaded with umber, or any brown colour, in those parts that the wood is to be stained, as he then will be enabled, as he proceeds, to copy the various shades of the pattern, for the wood when once shaded cannot be altered; and as much of the beauty of this work depends on a proper judgment in placing your shadows, it is best always to have a guide to go by, that we may produce the best possible effect. Sometimes it is requisite to give a shadow in the centre, and not on the edge of your wood; and as this cannot be done by dipping it in the sand, you must do it by taking up a little of the hot sand, and sprinkling it, or heaping it up on those parts required to be darkened, letting it remain a short time, then shaking it off, and, if necessary, apply more where the colour is not deep enough.