One of the perks of winning the best of show in the Sign of the Times annual contest is to have the project appear on the cover of the magazine. The editors of the magazine choose a great photograph that fits the format of the cover. The photo that made the cut is Tom’s tribute sign. This is a whimsical sign I really enjoyed designing and fabricating. It features CNC routing, plasma-cut steel, lots of hand sculpting and painting and some 23K gold lettering for the perfect amount of bling. Forty-two years after I first admired a winning entry in this same contest, it is our turn to hopefully inspire some others.
Canopy beginnings
Henry was delighted to hear I had purchased the gas struts to assist with the opening mechanism of his 2026 parade float plane’s canopy. With the struts in hand, we could begin fabricating the framework. We first went to the local hardware store to pick out a sturdy hinge. This involved cutting, forming and welding some tubing. As each piece was test-fitted, Henry would climb into the cockpit and test the fit. After each weld, he would climb back in again and spritz the hot area to cool it down before he test-opened the canopy pieces. By the end of today’s work session, Henry was pleased with our progress and a functional frame. Next, we’ll begin forming the flanges to mount the canopy plexiglass. Once that is done, we can get to mounting the gas struts. Henry is waiting as patiently as he can…
Mud galore!
It was a banner day for sculpting on Vala’s Pirate Ship. We started with a modest goal to finish the back portion of the ship’s hull. The crew made great progress applying the magical concrete mud, and we decided to do the lower portion of the front hull as well. That went well as well, and the sculpting crew was doing a fabulous job keeping pace with me as I trowelled on the concrete. Despite the climbing temperatures, we added the rudder to the day’s sculpting goal. That too went well, and one more big batch was enough concrete to do the front wall inside the deck and two more boards on the hull between the front trim pieces. It was a fabulous finish to a very productive and busy week. If the weather cooperates next week, we will be able to finish the sculpting on the main hull. Inside the shop, we have more pieces of the ship ready to begin sculpting next week as well, especially if we get a little rain. Stay tuned for much more…
