Recently I got to know of a local firm nearby who operate a CNC plasma cutter. As soon as I found this out ideas started buzzing around my mind and before you know it I'm wanting to build a 20' steel cow. Anyway I thought I should calm down a little and start off a little smaller. I was shown the software that they use to draw the vector images and needed a little basic project to get to know how to use it. It just so happened that it was a friend of mines 40th coming up. So having had a think how I can combine CNC cut steel with wood and a little engraving a plan was formed.
I started out by drawing my design for the steel in vector form, this was then emailed off. A few little adjustments had to be made where I was trying to ask a little too much of plasma cutter but overall I am thoroughly impressed with the end result.
I then found myself a suitable piece of wood, this happened to be sycamore. The wood was sanded up and a finish of clear wax applied.
Next steps are to attach the steel to the wood and do some detailed engraving on the wood. I had left the steel outside for a few weeks so that some rust could form, when it started looking how I wanted it I brought it inside to dry then applied a coat of clear lacquer.
I am currently on with several other projects involving the plasma cutter, I am hoping to get them finished in the next few weeks as I'm sure they will make fantastic Christmas gifts. I will keep you posted on progress.
As with all my projects if there is something you see and it sparks idea get in touch, either for a quotation or some advice on how to build, finish, source, sand etc... your own project.