How To Sculpt With Sheet Metal

Metal art using tin has been lesser known but firstly produced in mexico in the 16th century.

How to sculpt with sheet metal.

You can use a tape measure or ruler to measure the thickness of your sheet metal. Align the snips with the line you want to cut with the upper blade of the tin snips touching the sheet metal. Sometimes it is wise to use washers as well to avoid damaging the metals. A chipping hammer should come with your welder and also a wire brush.

You can use tinsnips to cut the sheet metal that will make up the majority of your sculpture. An angle grinder is optional but will help cut down time and cut steel faster. Once you have the holes you just stick the bolt through the hole and screw on the nut on the other end. Wet metal causes tool rust and oxides on the metal will become embedded into the sheet during hammer texturing.

Determine the thickness of your sheet. Tin snips are primarily used for cutting thin sheet metal like tin aluminum brass and thin gauge stainless steel. Clamp the sheet metal in place on your work table to hold it in place while you work. If you do not have an angle grinder a hacksaw will be sufficient.

This measurement will be necessary for calculating your bend allowance. If your sheet metal is too thick you may need special machinery like a brake or a torch to bend your sheet into the desired shape. Tape the four corners down with painter s tape or masking tape. Place the sheet on a clean flat smooth steel block.