Re: Paul Lehman's Medium Format stereo camera twin project

["Paul A. Lehman" <palehman@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Steve Spicer wrote:

> Wow! That real-wood veneer is just class - especially the mitre-type effect
> on the front panel. I would not have expected the veneer to go around
> corners so well - did you have to use steam to make it do that?

This was a real problem. The veneer easily bends
parallel to the grain, just like paper, however there
is virtually no give in the opposite direction. The
reason for the triangles on the front panels is because
I could not get a single sheet to bend both directions.
The softer curves (against the grain) on the body ends
were accomplished by first soaking the sheet in warm
water (not long enough to delaminated the veneer
backing) then binding it to a plastic tube (rubber
bands & tape) with a smaller diameter then needed.
After 24 hours, it would retain the curve to allow
gluing to the camera body (firmly clamped in place
until the glue set).

I bought the veneer at Home Quarters, a local mega
hardware store. It came as 5 8x10 sheets, each sheet a
different kind of wood (mahogany, cherry, maple, pine
and red oak). I think the package cost me $8.00.

> It looks like you've done a great job on it. It should take excellent shots
> - the Isolettes I have (with Agnars - triplets I think) give really good
> photos.

Thanks Steve! The lenses are pretty good, now if I can
remember to bring along a tripod, my shots should be
even sharper!

Paul A. Lehman