The art and craft of cuemaking can be traced back to the early 1600s. At that time the mace, a heavy club-like implement, was the popular instrument used when playing billiards. America's cuemaking industry started in approximately 1850 and by 1900 it became the largest producer of cues in the world. Indeed, many of the techniques used today can be traced back to this earlier era. To truly appreciate the unique art of cuemaking, one must be aware of the many aspects of the implement.
Most people think of a cue as simply an instrument of billiards.
While this may be true in function, elements of beauty and craftsmanship can be found in the simplest or most ornate cue. The types of materials used as well as designs, splicing techniques, inlays and wraps, all contribute to the artistry of a cue. Some cuemakers choose to use exotic woods as their medium. Others choose to incorporate precious metals, gems and ivory in addition to exotic woods. The techniques of modern cuemakers range from traditional methods to the cutting edge of technology.