Description
Register at: Craft Guild of Dallas
This workshop will explore die-forming processes for metal sheet. We will begin with making blanking dies that will give us the ability to quickly cut out multiples of the same shape. Making a silhouette die to fit will allow us to create a rounded form in the hydraulic press that can be blanked out afterward. Silhouette dies can be enhanced with thermal plastic to create simple contours. Carving directly in cast acrylic allows for more complexity and detail. Metal pressed into a carved die will duplicate the carved forms. A previously blanked out shape can be pressed into a carved contour die or a flat sheet of metal can first be pressed into the die and the resulting relief form can be cut out with a blanking die.
We will be exploring many design concepts using die-forming including creating hollow beads, small vessel forms and using the excess metal around the pressed pieces – the flange – as a method of connection or an additional design element. We will also experiment with using dies to create texture and pattern before contouring with silhouette dies.
Jayne will provide materials for students to purchase, including tool steel, cast acrylic sheet, thermal plastic, and skip tooth saw blades. Plan to spend $45 to $65. She will also be supplying a rotational bench pin and magnetic protractor for each student to use. They will be available for purchase at the end of the workshop for a special discount.
