Sand shading is a way of bringing life to a marquetry picture by creating subtle shading and lighting effects (see edge of face) through the use of hot sand to brown the veneer. It is particularly useful for flower petals and human or animal body parts to give a 3 dimensional effect or on fan blades to create a sense of movement. It looks best when the burning is graduated and very black tones should be avoided as this means the veneer is burnt!