How To Turn Metal Into Art

You can find a wide variety of metal sculptures. They range from free standing monoliths two relief sculptures. They are generally cast from bronze or created using scrap metal.

The artist uses plasma torches, scrap metal, sheet metal and even sometimes tin or aluminum to create objects of beauty. When working with this medium you will have to be very safety conscious. Heavy leather gloves and a welding mask is standard equipment for metal artist. Read on to learn how the process works.

1. The process starts with an idea. The artist usually sketches the form onto paper as a whole. Then they go one step further and sketch each piece, as it will need to be cut from the metal. If they were to be sculpting a bird they would sketch the body, the beak, the legs and wings separately.

2. Next they gather the materials for the project. If they plan to use sheet metal they buy it in sufficient quantities that if a mistake is made the project can still go forward. Most artist try to use as much scrap metal in their work as possible. They see it as doing their part for the planet .

3. The artist likes to use metals that can be easily bent. A malleable piece of metal makes the project go smoother. Metals of 1/8in thickness are the best mediums for metal sculpting.

4. Then comes the hard part, calculating the dimensions of each piece and determining how to fit them together. Once you have the measurements use a marker or paint pen to draw the outline in the required dimensions onto the metal.

5. If you need to make the metal more malleable heat it until it turns red how and then move it into a vice. You can hammer it into shape or make the necessary cuts while it is in this softened shape. If cutting with a plasma torch, remember to always cut on the outside of the lines.

6. All is left to do is shape or weld the pieces into place. Shaping can be done by hand if the metal is cool enough. Assemble the pieces of the object, make a notation on each piece where it is to be joined to another and you are ready to weld.

Once you have finished putting the object together you can finish it in any manner you like. Some use an epoxy-acrylic type coating and others choose to paint or any manner of other finishes. The epoxy acrylic finish will be shiny and will also help to prevent the piece from rusting.


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