Clay to Collector – The Bronze Casting Process
Master Chaser Baser Nancy Palm secures “Sunnyside Up” and “Life’s a Ball” to the 48″ x 32″ x 1/2″ plate bronze base of “Pals” Step Thirteen: The Base Person Eleven: The BASE MAKER
Going forward, “Sunnyside Up” and “Life’s a Ball” are shown playing as “Pals”. When a piece has a base other than bronze, a base specialist is employed to make a custom base. This can include a waterjet person, wood worker and/or a stone specialist.
A Base is custom designed for each sculpture that requires a base. Basing “Pals” requires many steps and specialists:
1. Buy the bronze plate, pay to have to shipped to Dream Chasers, Loveland, CO.
2. When I get to Loveland, drive the plate to Colorado Waterjet in Berthoud, CO.
3. Waterjet the rectangle into an oval of bronze.
Part One: Computer generate a design to send to the waterjet machine.
Part Two: Place the plate on the 6′ x 12′ machine and watch it work its magic!
4. Drive the plate back to Dream Chasers.
5. Two or more persons place the 200+ pound oval plate on two rolling tables.
6. Chase and grind the bronze plate, eliminating imperfections.
7. Site the dogs on the base.
8. Create two templates, marking where the inside nuts are underneath the dogs.
9. Drill holes for securing dogs. Countersink holes.
10. Attach dogs to assure a proper fit.
11. Detach dogs.
12. Drill holes to secure base to pedestal with 3/8 or ½ inch stainless all thread.
13. Drive plate and dogs to patinuer.
14. Pick up patinaed parts, drive to Dream Chasers for reassembly.
15. Take to photographer.
No. 39
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