Foo - Any metal welders/sculpters out there?

Howdy,

I'm looking to learn how to weld so I can get into metal sculpting. My questions are:

1. Any else on BF ever make any metal scultpures? If so, mind sharing your pieces?

2. Welding only goes so far. How does one make a scultpure like this, which is very detailed?

http://img57.imageshack.us/img57/9004/432721742c71f5a68edsk6.jpg

That looks like a poured bronze cast. Detailed after it was removed from its mold.

My only experience with welding is arc welding steel tubing to build sets for a college theatre. I won't be much help.

Yeah, the lion was probably sculpted out of clay first to make a cast.

As far as welding goes, it's a means to an end for me. I've only done it when needed to build/fix bikes, motorcycles. Fabricated suspensions and roll-cages for race cars. Nothing artsy really.

Thats cast for sure.

Yeah, the lion was probably sculpted out of clay first to make a cast.

As far as welding goes, it's a means to an end for me. I've only done it when needed to build/fix bikes, motorcycles. Fabricated suspensions and roll-cages for race cars. Nothing artsy really.

That would make sense to make it out of clay first.

Got any pics of your cages? I'm looking to build a truck sometime within a year I'd say. Not to change this into a car building thread though. Whats the best way to learn to weld? Take a class? Offering a case of beer to a buddy that welds?

Both are good ways. I learned at work. The case of beer is probably a whole lot cheaper and more enjoyable if your buddy is genuinely knowledgeable.

Hmm, pics are on my home computer, might dig those out later.

As for learning how to weld, check your local city-college. They typically have lots of night & vocational classes on welding. Start with gas oxy/acetylene welding for historical reasons, then move onto MIG & TIG welding. MIG's easiest and quickest to pick up for home welder and gives good results. TIG requires more practice and skill, but provides the nicest and strongest welds.

Not me but I had this pic saved. He actually made that manifold and the flower. Ill see if I can find the rest of the flowers he made too.

http://www.full-race.com/catalog/images/christurbo.jpg

The lion was cast with the lost wax technique.


I sculpt.

The lion was cast with the lost wax technique.


I sculpt.

Got any pics of your work?

Not me but I had this pic saved. He actually made that manifold and the flower. Ill see if I can find the rest of the flowers he made too.

http://www.full-race.com/catalog/images/christurbo.jpg

alright, it's turbo-Jesus!