Embrace scroll shelf brackets-Part2

 Hi Everyone,

I have finally started to cut out all the parts I will need for the two shelf brackets. They consist of two mitered parts for the brackets and a larger blank for the scroll design. I had to make sure that all parts are cut true and square for the shelf the sit level on the brackets. When you start with nice square parts, the rest of the project will be a joy.

Checking to see if all the parts are square before I attach the paper patterns

Not only do I make sure that the wood parts are square I also have to make sure that the patterns are cut square to align to the wood blank

To join the scroll to the mitered brackets I use dowels in the appropriate sections for added strength.  I use a dowel jig to guide the drill bit square and centered into the wood. 

The drilled dowel holes. In this case I am using 3/8" diameter dowels.

Now all I have to do is to find the position of the mating dowel holes in the bracket members. I use dowel centers to find the exact location of the holes. 

I hope you will join me next time for part 3!

Thanks for looking!

Roshaan

Embrace scroll shelf brackets - Part1

Hello Everyone,

I love custom work! It definitely keeps your mind ticking.

My next exciting project is a pair of scrolled shelf brackets made out of oak. My client requested that I take inspiration from a wonderful print called the "Embrace" by Gustav Klimpt which will hang across from the shelf. The print is vibrant with amazing color and wild scrolls and shapes and it's just a visual playground. I lifted a portion of the scroll from the print and gave it my own twist - no pun intended :)

I gave my client quite a few options and she chose the one pictured above. From the 1/4 scale drawings I had to enlarge the chosen pattern to a workable full scale pattern. 

With every hardwood (as apposed to veneered sheet goods) project I like to acclimatize the wood to my workshop for a couple of days before I make my first cut. Keep in mind that it's coming from the lumber yard to my shop and then to my clients home - so it's travelling through various temperatures. 

I have a nice wide piece of oak selected for the scroll and and a narrower board for the mitered brackets. 

I can't wait to get started, so please join me next time for part 2!

Thanks for looking!

Roshaan

New Belt Buckle Series

Hello Everyone!

Yes, I'm still here! Sorry for the big gap in between postings. I have been feverishly working on a series of new belt buckles and it's been quite exciting! I explore a couple new techniques in the buckle creation one of which I'm quite familiar with, i.e. bent lamination. I used bent lamination extensively as seen below in my graduation chair project from the Fine Furniture Program offered at Camosun College in Victoria, BC.
The second technique that I employ in the buckles is the use of colored epoxy resin inlays. It sounds like a difficult process but once you achieve the right mix and color it is actually quite a fun process. Now I'll share a few pictures of what I have been up to these past few weeks. So hope you enjoy!

PS...these belt buckles are available for purchase at  http://www.etsy.com/shop/mokajadedesigns

Chou Chair-grad project a true labor of love!

The curve adds dimension to an otherwise flat piece of wood.

The buckle back hardware is attached using epoxy and is also screwed in place for added strength

Thanks for looking!

Roshaan