Christmas Ornaments
Fins laid out for bandsaw...
Shaping begins...
Shaping begins...
Original patterns by Chad Turner...
Body laid out and ready for bandsaw...
Top profile is cut out first...
The 3 pieces of Tupelo are now taped or glued back together to cut out side profile...
Bodies roughed out and ready for shaping...
Fins are detailed then soaked with CA glue to provide strength...
Taking shape, ready for scales...
Scales burned and fins are ready to be inserted...
A steel rod was inserted into the caudal to provide strength on this vunerable area of the Jacks...
Taking shape...
The area of the fin to be inserted is coated with wax or other release agent so they can be easily "pulled" during the time the sculpting epoxy is hardening. This is done so the fins can be painted separately to avoid over spray.
Two part sculpting epoxy...
Ready for wood sealer...
Sculpting epoxy, fin insertion...
Primed with gesso, ready for paint...
Scale tipping...
Ready for top coat..