working out whether I’d need to add some sort of a stand
So I decided to stipple the paint in to create a uniform, subtle texture
Made as a wedding gift for close friends, I wanted to make sure this was a completely enclosed piece, that would last a lifetime.
The arrow was laser cut from 1.2mm mild steel, onto which 1mm mild steel was MIG welded. Mounting tabs for the plywood backing plate were welded on and the front face painted with a slightly mottled texture. The walls were left in bare (lightly oiled) steel to allow the piece to ‘age’ nicely — as if it were a relic from a burlesque show in the 30s.
Pygmy bulbs were affixed to their bulb-holders and a dimmer switch added to allow control over the amount of light. This means on lower light settings, the filaments can clearly be seen glowing orange beneath their glass bulbs.
Below are some detailed photos from the build.
The walls starting to take shape
Curved walls were simply bent in a vice incrementally (rather than rolled)
loose fitting of the walls to ensure a tight fit
Ready to fire up the welder!
mostly welded up here — all welding was done to the back face to keep grinding on the front-side to a minimum
rear of the arrow showing welds and backing plate tabs
All welded up!
working out whether I’d need to add some sort of a stand
backing plate mounted with stainless M6 fasteners
A thumb recess was cut to allow removal of the backing plate
painting begins. I used red Hammerite, which covers well but leaves brush-marks…
So I decided to stipple the paint in to create a uniform, subtle texture
bulb holders and bulbs all mounted
I like the contrast between the interior of the bulbs themselves and the stark red paint
low light test
Again, testing to see if a stand is required.
I haven’t yet found an LED bulb that looks a nice as these old filament pygmy bulbs!
