I first learned about marquetry about 11 years ago when I bought an antique tea table.  The top was being repaired by Master Craftsman, Patrick Edwards here in San Diego.  Upon visiting his atelier, he convinced me to enroll in his newly formed marquetry course, The American School of French Marquetry.
My interests in antiques seem to lie in the 18th century era, French and Italian styles are particularly attractive to me. Equally exciting for me is that my wife, Ronelle, enjoys similar styles.  She is a huge supporter of my marquetry interests and work, always looking to see what I have done that day.

The next photo is the pattern of a French table in the mid 1800s and the carving is our design to fit the marquetry. I am making a queen-sized headboard using this pattern.    We are in the process of beginning the external carving shown.
(see update below)