From the multitude of cutting techniques developed over the centuries, there are now five fundamental technique used in cutting marquetry patterns and designs. The first four techniques are known by Italian names as they were popular during the Renaissance. The fifth has a French name as it was developed in Paris during the 18th century.

The first is inlaying. Known as tarsia certosina, this is the original technique used by the Egyptians. In this method, the craftsman uses a chisel and gouge to cut cavities out of the wooden subtrate and then fill them with the design materials.

The second technique is known as tarzia geometrica. It involves the use of rectilinear geometric shapes to create decoration. This technique was invented in the 14th century, and is called frisage by the French, and parquetry by the English.

The third method is tarzia a tappo which means block marquetry. In this technique the craftsman creates decorative banding for border fillets on furniture and floorings.

The next method is called tarzia a incastro. This is the Boulle technique described above.

The fifth and last method is the "piece-by-piece" or classical technique. In this method, the different design elements are cut separately in an attempt to reduce the gap left by the blade of the saw. This requires considerable skill on the part of the craftsman but the result is worth it as the pieces fit perfectly together with no gaps visible.