When decorating their own home, many use different objects and methods for this. A variety of decorative elements are used. One of the most time-consuming and original ways is to make metal crafts with your own hands.
The cold shine of such decorations ennobles the rooms, bringing unexpected freshness to them. Such things always carry something attractive to the eye, constantly attracting attention.
The metal does not have to be new and durable. For example, many New Year's crafts are made from metal that is no longer needed for household purposes. Unsuitable cuttings from the pipe, all kinds of screws and nuts, nails, etc.
It is thanks to them that unique compositional solutions are created, so unusually transforming an ordinary space into a festive one.
You should also not neglect metal waste and dispose of it. The most ordinary wire or piece of metal can “turn” into a very unusual creative product.
For example, by cutting a regular can of canned food, you can get a rectangle. It is processed, getting rid of unnecessary dirt and sharp corners, and then an unusual remarkable pattern is applied.
Then, by bending, it gets the required shape. The decoration is ready.
Compliance with safety measures
Safety precautions when carrying out this kind of work are in the first place. With a simple hammer, of course, such precautions are not required.
But working with metal sheets will require compliance with certain rules so as not to get hurt.
This is why both goggles and gloves are essential. Reinforced equipment is simply necessary when carrying out work related to welding. Here you need special gloves plus a visor with a protective mask, not to mention full-fledged protective clothing.
Do not forget about the need for frequent ventilation, especially when varnishes and paints are used for work.
Metal objects. Technologies
Looking through the many attractive photos of metal crafts, it is noticeable that they are made using various technologies. For example, a craft in the form of a small cute owlet will require minor welding, and a pretentious fence monogram cannot be made without thorough forging. In a home environment, preference is given to:
- Hot forging. This creates a special environment of a sufficiently high temperature. Thanks to it, metal objects will become flexible and softened, and will be able to take the desired shape. The work is considered difficult and is intended to be performed exclusively by specialists with certain training. But the decor products are also the most beautiful;
- Welding "Art" - gas. The main "trick" is the ability to achieve a faded color;
- Forging, called "cold". The metal base is folded and pressed. If necessary, the individual elements are welded together. Allows you to make items of large and small sizes;
- Coinage, when a pattern is applied by mechanical action. An object is used that is usually present between the tool for work and the metal;
- Casting. This method is the most common in practice. The hot mass is poured into pre-prepared forms. However, in this case, roughness is formed on the surface, and it will not be possible to display the image in detail;
- Filigree jewelry method.It allows you to make various patterns using wire, with its application to the surface.
Applying drawings
It is not difficult to look through various sources to acquire the necessary drawings of metal crafts that can be useful in work.
The creation of most items usually does not require specific knowledge.
Enough initial experience and desire, which, together with video materials and detailed instructions, will help you gradually master this exciting craft.
Sheet metal. Crafts
When you plan to start making sheet metal crafts on your own, you can do the simplest options in practice:
- Owlet. It is made using a stencil paper pattern. The drawing is cut out of steel using a grinder. For the eyes, holes are drilled. Bird legs are made from rods. All uneven places are smoothed out by straightening. The owl needs to be coated with anti-rust and then paint;
- Rosettes. The topic is not new, but loved by many. In this case, it is necessary to use a welding machine. Scissors for cutting metal make about thirty petals. Uneven surfaces are smoothed out with a sharpening stone. A steel cable is twisted in a spiral with pliers. The petals in turn need to be welded to the stem. The spikes are also fixed with a welding machine. The seams are cleaned with a grinder, and the rose is painted on top;
- A butterfly is fairly easy to make using steel wire. A medium thickness material that is not difficult to bend is suitable. Coils in the form of a spiral - the body of an insect. The wings are made from oval shapes. All details are firmly fixed to the body parts.
Even slightly owning the means at hand, you can always, if you wish, make beautiful and simple things that will delight those around you with their uniqueness.
Photo of metal crafts
