Checkering

I start by scribbling lines onto the wood with a soft white pencil to determine the pattern and lines before I start cutting. I erase all of the messy lines and re-do them so there is one clean line to follow.

Laying out lines. I use 1/4" detailing tape to help keep them straight and aligned.

Scratching in the first lines, going over the top.

Second set of lines started.

Getting there... I've started on the fore-end checkering too.

About here is where my brain starts to go numb.

Tricky spot here. My fingers hurt.

Alright, we're getting somewhere now!

Making sure every diamond is sharp from edge to edge.

Starting the border.

Deepening the lines

Nicking out slivers with a razor sharp veiner chisel. My eyes hate me now.

Touching up border lines.

Voila! 20 lines-per-inch checkering, connecting over the top of the wrist and with a partial "jagged" border. Ready for final finishing and waxing.