dcurrie911
Elite Cafe Member
- Joined
- Jul 13, 2012
- Messages
- 265
Hi Cadows. I certainly would not want my post to dissuade anyone from joining this slightly crazy group of hand engravers. but am glad that you are taking note of some of what is involved.
the key is to know your limitations and work to improve. If you have not yet started then you (like everyone) will start with flat material. learn How to cut consistent lines without tilting to one side or the other and without diving deep or coming shallow. Then learn how to intentionally tilt the graver to give depth and life to leaves. Once you are ready then buy some copper pipe (Or something similar) and Learn how to do the same on the convex Surface. Then buy some 45 degree copper elbows to learn how to cut on complex concave surfaces. Then try the inside surface of the elbows. You will quickly realize the added complexity of a convex surface is that the material itself interferes with your hand and graver. If you have mastered the inside of a 45 degree elbow then add a 2 inch pipe to one end and try it again. And don’t expect to do what i outlined overnight. I expect the typical engraver would take years and in most cases 10 plus years of experience before they would consider engraving the piece that Roger showed.
Dan
the key is to know your limitations and work to improve. If you have not yet started then you (like everyone) will start with flat material. learn How to cut consistent lines without tilting to one side or the other and without diving deep or coming shallow. Then learn how to intentionally tilt the graver to give depth and life to leaves. Once you are ready then buy some copper pipe (Or something similar) and Learn how to do the same on the convex Surface. Then buy some 45 degree copper elbows to learn how to cut on complex concave surfaces. Then try the inside surface of the elbows. You will quickly realize the added complexity of a convex surface is that the material itself interferes with your hand and graver. If you have mastered the inside of a 45 degree elbow then add a 2 inch pipe to one end and try it again. And don’t expect to do what i outlined overnight. I expect the typical engraver would take years and in most cases 10 plus years of experience before they would consider engraving the piece that Roger showed.
Dan