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On The Fly

Bonjour beautiful people!

I usually start off the year with big plans of making many pieces for the holidays.  Meaning for winter solstice!  I know...it is at least 11 months away but before you know it, it will be the end of summer and then panic will ensue!  Hahaha!!!

My most recent piece I made was for that special lady who travels in a caravan with her 'Sisters on the Fly' group.  I only had a week to finish this project but the idea had been simmering in my brain for at least a week prior to the deadline.  

First the rough draft... I decided how big it was going to be and made a sketch with notes on what I was "planning" on doing.  So far so good.  You can see the cut out tin, a button for the wheel, and a glimmer of what will be the door.  That small window was cut out prior to cutting the shape of the trailer because it makes it easier than cutting it out later.  Trust me...I know!!!  
The back plate (copper) was put through my brand new rolling mill, before cutting out the shape, I had since November but was afraid to use.  I have to say that Rolling Mill totally rocks!

All the pieces cut out. 
 I will stamp #621 in the space where the window will be,  file everything down best I can, and patina before placing that first rivet.  Here is me deciding where the wheel and door will fit.

After riveting the two sheets I put a couple of rivets to hold everything together and finished filing.  I did this before riveting the door, wheel, or fish.  I used aluminum and copper tube rivets, brass rivets for aesthetic purposes, and my handmade rivets because they are so AWEsome!!!  Hehehe!!!

Tip:  Anneal the brass and let it cool by itself.  Do not quench.  Quenching will only make your brass harden.

And the finished product...

Merci beaucoup for letting me share this journey with all of you!  Have a great week!!!
Namaste
Kalaya
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