Mosaics and sculptures since 1988
This is a quadrangular-shaped chisel. Essential for removing large pieces of material, this tool is normally used at the beginning of a job. It can sometimes be useful for other purposes, such as the decorative technique of bitto. The tip can be conical (more stubby but resistant) or pyramidal, which is more pointed and vulnerable.
The teeth chisel is perhaps the most important tool in the entire modelling process. After the roughing phase of the block, this tool allows the texture of the shape to be defined, easily penetrating the stone thanks to its shape. The chisel creates a ‘combed’ effect on the surface, a sort of raking action using carbide teeth that can vary in size. The greater the number of teeth, the denser the texture created.
These tools are known by various names: Round chisel, mallet head chisel, giandini, etc. They are actually chisels with rounded heads. They therefore retain their original shape, which is given a typical finger shape by grinding. They are used when a smooth, rounded profile needs to be carved into the stone.
The topping bit is a blunt tool designed to be deliberately imprecise. It is widely used to remove large portions of stone from the edges of fireplaces, or to create the typical irregular surface texture. It is also used on the edge. It does not require great manual skill and must be struck firmly from above. Given the slanted profile of the blade, it easily removes up to 10 cm of thickness.
