Al uses the Ryobi reciprocating carver to trace geometric lines into the black Gesso. The lines were created using repeated patterns of a "chevron" template made out of mylar. He uses a watercolor pencil, dry, to draw the pattern. Later, he can use a damp paper towl to erase the lines without having color bleed into the carved areas.

Here's the jig that Daryl Mitchell built according to Al's plans. This provides support over the entire rim while holding the bowl securly. This prevents the piece from moving and the rim from flexing while he uses his pneumatic reciprocating carver.

This is a side view, showing the clamping apparatus of the jig.

The final decoration on the bottom of the platter was a series of shallow coves. Later he would apply these to the rounded bottom of the bowl as well.

This shows various carving techniques on the sycamore bowl.

Al had a great way to ensure straight lines that were parallel to the floor. By placing the pencil along the flat surface of the jig, the pencil would remain flat, thereby removing the error of the pencil tipping up or down while following the tool rest.

This shows the sycamore bowl being roughed out.

Al could really get the chips flying when he wanted to.

Here is the platter being held in the vacuum carving jig.

This shows a bowl being held in the carving jig.