The project I chose involved revisiting a past creation, the porthole entry table, and transforming it into a captivating wall-mounted art piece. The central element would be a segmented ring, complemented by three decorative bars and a steel panel featuring a patterned patination process. I envisioned the final result as an abstract painting framed by the segmented ring, offering a visually striking display.
Utilizing the Wedgie Jig Technique
To achieve precision in creating the segmented ring, I opted for the wedgie jig. This tool simplified the process by allowing precise cutting of segments with corresponding angles. The wedgie jig proved to be a time-saving and foolproof method, ensuring perfect results without the need for laborious adjustments.
Overcoming Clamping Challenges
One of the challenges I encountered during the project was effectively gluing the segmented ring together. To address this, I developed a technique using tape to provide tension and facilitate tight joints. This method ensured that the pieces aligned seamlessly, preventing gaps and allowing for optimal clamping pressure. I have found this to be the best way to clamp a segmented ring.
How to Clamp a Segmented Ring
I take some painter’s tape and tape one end to the table, with the sticky side up. I roll out the amount of tape I need to clamp the segmented ring. I then pull it tight, creating tension in the tape and tape down the other end. I use a straight edge, in this case, my 8-foot level, to help me align the segments as I stick them down to the tape. Once I have them all stuck down and glue spread between each piece. I flip the whole assembly on its side, roll it up, and tape the end shut so it becomes a ring. The tension in the tape created earlier helps keep gaps from forming between the segments, allowing for a perfect glue-up.
French Cleat Mounting for Wall Display
For wall mounting, I decided to use a French cleat. The process involved creating a flat spot on the back of the segmented ring using a router. Once I routed out a flat pocket, I then attached the French cleat, ensuring a secure and flush mounting mechanism.
Intricate Inlay
To enhance the visual appeal, I decided to incorporate decorative bars into the segmented ring. Using a router with a pattern bit, I carefully created grooves for the inlay, for three vertical bars to be inlayed into the ring. This inlay was inspired by Japanese art and architecture.
Finishing Touches
The final step involved adding depth of color to the steel panel using a variety of chemicals, resulting in a captivating and unique patina. The first and most crucial step for a successful patination is getting the metal clean. I used muriatic acid to clean the metal before applying my concoction of chemicals to create the colors and patterns.
What began as a challenge of dealing with excess scraps evolved into a personally rewarding and visually stunning wall-mounted artwork. My creative approach, coupled with ingenuity in utilizing tools and tricks like the wedgie jig and sticky side-up tape, showcases the transformative power of woodworking. This project not only breathed new life into discarded materials but also exemplified the endless possibilities that arise from constraints and creative thinking.
