You will typically use MOP or Paua or Abalone of around 0.8mm to 1.1mm. This stuff breaks if you are not really careful or if you have bought too thin a blank. DON'T think about buying off e-bay as I have only ever had bad experiences. Circles that aren't circles (despite the pictures on e-bay) and many more examples where the product arrives with cracks/ chips/ etc.
The earlier recommendation by DB is the same folks I use. Always great quality and if you have issues they are very accommodating.
Before you can begin to cut your shape you will need to consider planning ahead by drawing or printing your planned shape on paper and then sticking this drawing with super glue to the MOP blank. Allow it to dry and do not put too much super glue on the MOP otherwise it doesn't dry and stick in a hurry. Just make sure you get the glue all over the paper as it all needs to be stuck down on the MOP. If you have areas where it is not glued, then the paper will be torn / moved/ damaged by the blade and this might stuff up your cutting process.
So:
Plan ahead by drawing your logo or inlay.
Choose a big enough blank
Stick it down with Super Glue
Wax your blade
Ensure that the direction of the cut is on the DOWN stroke.
Ensure the blade is properly tensioned within the saw
Position the blank around the Apex of the beak and start cutting with the blade aimed at the apex and the saw in the MOUTH of the BEAK.
BUT - Do not force the cutting process - Your blade WILL break.
ALWAYS keep the blade at 90 degrees to the blank that you are cutting - this ensures the 'sides' of the blank are cut straight and it also preserves your blade.
Take your time - my first logo took 30 - 40 minutes first time around.
It is advisable to use magnification when cutting. Scare alert on the picture.....
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