Every once in a while I tackle a project that uses all my skills and then pushes the limits just a little further. These are the undertakings I enjoy the most! The projects don’t have to be large to be challenging and fun.

I’m working on a project now in the shop that is just such a challenge. The detailed, dimensional sign involves designing, machining, sculpting, fitting and welding painstaking metal work, lots of detailed painting and even a little 23K gold leaf work before we are done. I finished machining, sculpting and painting the submarine late last week... then over the weekend designed the compass border and carved it from High Density Urethane. Today I bent the heavy steel frame and fabricated the tricky bracket before gluing it all together.

This idea has been living inside my head for quite a while... and promises to be a cool piece when we are done. Stay tuned for the next progress report as it proceeds...

-grampa dan