a ? for JVC

["John VanCamp" <jvcstnwrks@zzzzzzzzzzzzz>]

Hi Elle,      There are a variety of ways that the architectural
work presents itself.  Generally if an architect is involved,
detailed plans are provided, and some also provide shop drawings
which are the actual fabrication drawings, although I am often
expected to provide the shop drawings.  Also full size templets
for the ornamentation, and occasionally plaster models come with
the drawings. The other end of the spectrum is the home owner /
builder who brings me a magazine picture and (if I'm lucky)
dimensions, and drop the entire design process in my lap. Either
way, the process often involves a round of stone samples being
sent out ( I commonly work with 6 or 7 different limestones),
shop drawings being field checked for dimensional accuracy, and
sometimes the soothing of ruffled egos.

While I will on occasion work on site, my preference is to do
all of the carving in my shop, and ship the finished product.
Each piece is identified with a mark (number) that corresponds
with the individual pieces on the shop drawing so any good stone
setter can install the piece. This is necessary since a
fireplace surround with over mantle may have twenty or more
pieces of stone in it, all of which need to fit together rather
precisely.  Check out the web site http://stonecarversguild.com
where there is some interesting information on what a
stonecarver is, and working with one.
John VanCamp / JVC Stoneworks