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How to Make Metal Sculptures

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.

Things You'll Need

  • Leather gloves
  • Brazing torch
  • Brazing rod (filler)
  • Butane fuel
  • Flux
  • Goggle
  • Heat-resistant gloves
  • Sealer/finisher for metal
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Instructions

  1. 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 how to 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.

Sculpture

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