Timber Beams | Decorative Brackets Part 3

Here I'm applying a patina to all the parts.

This is what the metal looks like before the patina.

This is what the metal looks like with the patina applied.

Each piece takes on a life of it's own. Isn't this just too cool?

I patinaed a test piece and had it clear powder coated to confirm the finish I had in mind.

Timber Beams | Decorative Brackets Part 2

Forging the vines.

Right vine forged first.

Then the left vine is forged.

Finally all the leaves are welded on the vines.

I really like this detail. Can you believe you can make red hot metal do this?

Timber Beams | Decorative Brackets

My current project is for brackets on some massive structural beams on a lodge-style home. The brackets will enhance the entrance and vines and leaves will flank the side beams adding a bit of organic whimsy. 

side brackets | initial ironwork cut to size and laid onto the cement floor template.

center brackets

embossing  |  a handmade scribing tool used in the fly press creates detail

hot iron  | distressing the metal one blow at a time

detail of the distressed metal edges and color variation the metal takes on

backside bracket  | distressed edge, nail holes drilled, no scribing

front side bracket  | distressed and engraved edge with nail holes.

 

nearly 40 handmade nails | some of which will be decorative, others will help hold the brackets in place.

leaves and vines | although time consuming, I enjoy the process of making leaves as each has it's own character.