We were confident we could sculpt a nice Highland cow in concrete, but this was a first for us. The key was to get the mud on thick, let it set up perfectly and then sculpt in the hair. Three of us did the sculpting, Matt, Jay and I, as Laura art directed from above while she was applying wire to the upper portion of the giant skull rock base. The cow turned out really nice, and it will be ready for paint next week. Stay tuned…
Sign Invitational 2026
The Sign Invitational of 2026 was a wonderful and successful event! Creative sign makers from across Canada and the USA crafted nine outstanding pieces and brought them to Orlando to display at the International Sign Association EXPO. Our display was generously hosted in the Specialty Machinery booth, and also sponsored by IBEX Software, Coastal Enterprises and X-Edge Tools. During the three-day show, thousands of attendees toured the booth, ogling the super-creative display of dimensional signs. More than 800 people voted for their favourite sign. When the votes were counted, Dave Nolan, Studio Y from Alberta, Canada, garnered third place. Rusty and Amanda Gibbs, Gibbs Graphics from Washington, came in second. Jim Dawson of Synergy Signs in Ohio, after many years of trying, deservedly won first place.
We had a blast at the show and enjoyed talking with those fascinated by the displayed pieces. Interest was high, and many promised to join the fun next year. We hereby challenge you to enter! The theme for next year is as follows…. “ A suitcase-sized blade or hanging sign that is themed to DINOSAURS!”
Concrete steed
The little horse that kids will sit on as they play cowperson, as they attempt to rope the Highland cow we will be sculpting tomorrow. Designed for little kids, the pony’s saddle isn’t too high off the ground. The exposed bottom portion of the frame will be buried in the ground with mulch up to the bottom of the hooves. We’ll let the freshly sculpted concrete cure until next week before we start on the paint. Stay tuned…
