Wm-Henry "Dragon" knife

[Doc Mark]

This knife has been a long time in the making. Mainly because I screwed up midway. I'll explain. The commission was for a "sculpted, dragon motif, with gold accents". Other than a couple of Hobo nickels, I've not sculpted metal before. Now as you know, I am familiar with bass relief in my cameo carving so I figured "how hard could it be?" Well, it's definitely different! Where I made the BIG mistake was not paying close enough attention to where the semi-sunk holes were positioned in the back of the scales. As a result, in my ardor to give the sculpted aspect the greatest depth, I perforated the background right through the metal where the pin holes were placed! Not only did I do this once but 3 times!!!! The only way to fix it was to find a local jeweler with a laser welder and pay him to repair my idiocy. Rick Thronberg just sent me the finished photos and I wanted you guys to see 'em. Next time I won't cut the background so deep, live and learn the hard way!

 

[Ste82]

Super work!

 

[wowilson]

If you don't mind saying. what did it cost for the welding? I only ask so if this ever comes up I might have a ballpark figure to expect.

 

[silverchip]

Usually it runs 75-100.00 hr. most jobs like this couldn't take more than an hour or so, but I am offering my opinion so take it as such, your situation mat vary!!!!!

 

[Doc Mark]

My jeweler charged me $50.00 for the three repairs. I thought it was very reasonable.

 

[wowilson]

Thanks. I have been thinking about this lately because I am sure at some point I will need it.

 

[Dave London]

Great work Doc. Around here it is at least $50 for small Areas

 

[thughes]

Doc,
Dang that is just way cool. Nicely done.

 

[SamW]

The lesson learned is to always check the back/thickness of the area to be worked. You are not alone in this one Doc. Like the work!

 

[Southern Custom]

Been there and got the shirt! My motto in the shop is never take anything for granted and that applies to the things you didn't even think about.
Layne

 

[scott99]

HI, even with the hiccups you still pulled off a great knife. Nice dragon, nice work.

scott99

 

[LVVP]

I like your work! Thanks

 

[Doc Mark]

Thanks for the nice comments guys!