layers of the varnish still remain to be applied, thin flakes of the shell are placed on the varnish in the required design, and are covered by the succeeding layers, giving rise to slight elevations when they are hidden by the coats of varnish The surface is then ground down smooth with sand paper and polished, and the grinding down brings to light the pieces of mother of pearl shell, which thus present the appearance of inlaid patterns. The fine surface which can be given to the asphalt varnish, also permits of burnished gilding and other decoration applications with excellent effect.
Papier maché may also be used for relief ornamentation for friezes, etc. The surface to be docorated should first be hacked with a knife, and then kalsomined, sawdust being added to the kalsomine, so as to give a rough surface on which the papier maché ornaments are fastened by means of strong glue. The papier maché should have gum arabic and a little glycerine added to it. The latter prevents the composition from drying too rapidly. Wild roses, passion flowers, etc., can be advantageously used for such decorations, which should be painted over with different colored bronzes.
It should be remembered that both in leather work and papier maché, it is desirable to model rather than stamp or mould. The material when properly treated is quite as plastic as clay, and will well repay the efforts made in learning to manage it properly.
Fig. 31 shows a chair bolster covered with dark brown morocco which is ornamented in a peculiar way called "racing." The rosettes, loops, and tassels at the ends are also made of the same material, the first catching together the leather covering which is here gathered and drawn in close; from four to five inches are to be allowed in length beyond the measure. To make the raced design (which can be drawn on the leather with a colored pencil, or else transferred) the outlines must first
