Forging & Finishing

Extruded Brass Blank

I begin with a brass blank & work the piece through a process of annealing and hammering to create the basic shape desired. Forms include concave, convex, flutes, ruffles, and much more.

Working the Shape

Desired shapes are made using specific hammers and stakes. Every part of the piece is worked repeatedly to create the lines and curves.

Texture & Finish

Once the desired shape is achieved, texture and other surface finishes are applied. This might be achieved with hammers, abrasives, polishers and acids.

Finished Brass Cuff - Synclastic Form - Hammered Texture, Acid Patina

This piece is an example of convex synclastic form. Synclastic means the dominant curves both move in the same direction.

Sometimes the metal moves in unplanned ways. In free form designs these shapes can be worked into the form, otherwise the piece is annealed and worked more to achieve the shape I’m trying for.

After the piece has been sawed open, the edges filed and sanded smooth, final touches are made to the edges and adjustments made for the desired fit.