bitsandspurs

well i was able to talk diane scalese into giving me a lesson or two this comming weekend.
i hope i am able to pick up a new cut here and there.
i hope she does not start throwing things after trying to teach me.
here is a new slide that i am working on.
after i am finished making diane mad i am moving on to arne esp's place.........wish him lots of luck.
thanks
shawn

Hi Shawn, tell Diane NHcowboy Paul says hi, she was my instructor at GRS and a really really great woman talented to the hilt! She's a real sweetheart with a great attitude and loves to teach others what others would not teach her many moons ago when bright cutting was a "secret" reserved for the clicky elite few. She's a natural born instructor who makes anything fun. First cut I saw her make blew me away and immediatley I knew I was right where I needed to be, and lucky for it. When she engraves it looks effortless but it's 20 plus years of engraving under her belt, I always try to remember that when I gauge my own work. If I can see something done I know I can do it too with a lot of practice and discipline. I had absolutely no clue how to bright cut, came off her one week course with knowledge and intense passion, and now can pass the muster to my own satisfaction. Without her help and advice I'd never be where I am now with my level of skill (still have a long way to go). I'd give my eye teeth for a refresher with Diane to get rid of the bad habits I picked up on my own. Take notes, they're a good reinforcer-there's alot to take in all at once. Dianne has said that bright cutting is difficult to learn but easy to master and I agree. Once you learn the basic cuts and how to use them it's just building off of those. Have fun and enjoy metting Diane, she's real people!
Paul

You did the right thing. She is the best western engraver I have seen, and her gun style is amazing also. You can't beat her cheerful personality and eagerness to help. I have learned so much from her as she is a great instructor and an excellent person! You will never regret your decision to head to Big Sandy and learn from one of the best. She and her husband make some top notch bits, spurs and buckles, and I wish I had half the skill that they both posses in one pinky finger. They are amazing people that create amazing things! Good decision, and good luck. Seth

I can't wait for you to come down, Shawn, I'll be picking your brain about what you learned at Diane's.