Intarsiasnickare

What does an intarsia carver do? – Tasks and work environment

An intarsia carver works with creating decorative patterns and images by assembling thin layers of different types of wood or other materials onto a surface, often on furniture, panels, or art objects. The profession requires great precision, a keen eye for detail, and a well-developed artistic talent, as each project is unique and tailored to customer wishes or historical references. The work environment is often workshop-based, utilizing both hand tools and specialized machines to cut, fit, and glue small pieces. Projects can also involve restoring older intarsia works, which demands knowledge of materials and understanding of traditional techniques.

Salary development over time

The salary for an intarsia carver has fluctuated slightly over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,400 SEK per month, rising to 33 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, a slight decrease has been noted, with an average monthly salary of 32 300 SEK. This change corresponds to an approximately 8 percent increase from 2022 to 2023, followed by a decrease of just over 2 percent in 2024. The trend can be explained by a certain saturation in the job market and an oversupply of qualified carpenters, which has put some downward pressure on wages in the past year. The demand for handcrafted intarsia work remains relatively stable, but competition for assignments has increased, affecting salary development.

Intarsia carver salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 300 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available, but the average salary for men is 32 300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 194 SEK (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Salary data for women is unavailable, men earn 32 300 SEK
• Regional differences: Specific data is lacking, but local conditions and demand can influence salary levels

Education and qualifications

To work as an intarsia carver, a high school education in fine carpentry or furniture carpentry is usually required, often complemented with specialized courses in intarsia techniques. Practical experience is crucial, and many learn the trade through apprenticeships or internships during their education. Intarsia is a craft that demands both technical skill and artistic expression, so interest and a keen eye for detail are highly valued in hiring.

• High school education: Specialization in fine carpentry or furniture carpentry (3 years)
• Vocational courses: Specialization in intarsia at vocational colleges or folk high schools
• Internships/apprenticeships: Common at established carpentry workshops or ateliers
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of woodwork techniques and materials
• Online/self-study courses: Supplementary training can be valuable

Common benefits and compensations

Intarsia carvers are often covered by collective agreements that include access to occupational pension, holiday pay, and insurance for illness and work-related injuries. Larger workshops sometimes offer wellness allowances, work clothing, and opportunities for skills development through courses and training. For longer projects, per diems and overtime pay may also be provided.

Competition and challenges

The competition within intarsia woodworking is relatively high, as the trade group is small and demand for specialized craftsmanship is decreasing as industrial manufacturing methods take over large parts of the market. An oversupply of trained carpenters makes it difficult to establish oneself, especially in urban areas where many seek similar assignments. At the same time, intarsia requires precision and experience, so the most skilled artisans can still carve out a niche for their services. Price pressure and long delivery times are additional challenges, especially for self-employed practitioners. It is also common for intarsia carvers to broaden their service offerings to secure ongoing assignments.

Tips for aspiring intarsia carvers

To succeed as an intarsia carver, patience and an eye for detail are essential, as the work often requires careful and slow execution to achieve a perfect final result. Creativity is a valuable asset, especially when creating unique patterns or solving unexpected problems during the process. It is recommended to seek internships during education to build experience and network within the industry. Precision and discipline are important, as small mistakes can have significant consequences for the finished work. Continuously updating skills in new techniques and materials can greatly improve craftsmanship and employability. Social skills facilitate collaboration with clients and colleagues, and an entrepreneurial spirit can be key for those aiming to start their own business. Finally, maintaining a good reputation for craftsmanship—good references often lead to new commissions—is vital.

Key facts about an intarsia carver

• Education level: High school education in fine carpentry, often supplemented with specialized courses
• Work environment: Workshop-based, often involving artistic and restoration projects
• Job market: Small but stable demand, with an oversupply of trained workers
• Available jobs within the profession: 341 nationwide
• Future outlook: Unchanged demand according to the Swedish Public Employment Service

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an intarsia carver can develop towards more advanced projects, such as specializing in restoring culturally significant environments or designing exclusive furniture. There are also opportunities to advance to supervisory roles in larger workshops or to start their own business and work as a consultant. Many combine craft work with teaching or demonstrations at schools and fairs. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that job opportunities are limited nationwide, with an oversupply of trained workers. However, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, meaning competition for available positions will stay high but stable. Broadening skills and being open to related roles can be crucial for long-term employment.

Frequently asked questions about intarsia carvers

• What is the average salary of an intarsia carver?
  - An intarsia carver has an average salary of 32 300 SEK per month.
• How does the salary development look?
  - Salaries have ranged between 30,400 and 33 000 SEK over the past three years, with a slight decline in the most recent year.
• What education is needed to become an intarsia carver?
  - High school education in fine carpentry or furniture carpentry, along with specialized courses in intarsia, are most common.
• Are there many job openings in the profession?
  - There are 341 available jobs nationwide within the trades of fine, interior, and furniture carpenters.
• What are the future outlooks for intarsia carvers?
  - According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, demand is unchanged and competition for jobs is high.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Precision, patience, creativity, and a sense of detail are especially valuable in the profession.