Braze together metal pieces to create a sculpture.
Making sculptures out of metal is possible with new and old metal. Visiting the local scrap yard will provide a wide choice of discarded metal, such as engine parts. You can find unique and cheaper pieces at these yards, and a visit to one even might give you inspiration for a design. Scrap-yard metals require more work since they will have to be cleaned to remove loose rust and grime versus buying brand new at a local hardware store.
Instructions
Preparation
1. Determine the type of metal sculpture you want to create, such as an abstract or real-life.
2. Sketch out thumbnail design ideas. Select the best one and make adjustments as needed.
3. Determine what type of metal pieces are needed to create the design such as big, little, thick, flat or round. Locate the pieces from a hardware store, scrap yard, flea market or around the house.
4. Clean up any scrap metal you plan to use to remove loose pieces and grime.
Assemble
5. Determine assemble metal pieces by experimenting with different arrangements. Do not be afraid to change the design if a better compositional arrangement is found.
6. Secure pieces with clamps. Use safety precautions such as wearing goggles, gloves and working in a well-ventilated area. Permanently attach pieces by brazing.
7. Start brazing by fluxing sides that will be joined. Heat the area between metal pieces to the same temperature and place a filler rod on the heated sides. Allow the filler rod to melt. Remove any leftover flux with hot water.
8. Let sculpture cool and remove clamps. Smooth out any rough edges by sanding or grinding. Apply sealer/finisher to add a polished finish.
