Measure Twice Buy Once

I can point to many times lately that I've been haunted by large furniture in small spaces. My current work space is no exception. Because of the Herculean efforts (and I don't throw around Greek Mythological references lightly) of a pal, there is a 4 x 10' piece of plywood on my studio floor. This wood shall become my work table.



In a rain storm we inched the plywood through a very tiny staircase. I can't believe it fit. I am grateful it did.

I bought the plywood from L. Sweet Lumber in Providence. I mention them because they are the last local independent lumber yard. Founded in 1885, even their facilities are a wonder to behold.

In the same vein I sing the praises of Durfee Hardware just over the border in Cranston, RI. Again getting to poke around in the old and still functional spaces is worth the trip.

anyone else have any nonboxstores to recommend?

I promise I will start making art soon. But until check out CRAFTLAND's holiday sale.

I will be dropping off some bracelets made from used bike inner tubes, a share of the proceeds support Providence's Recycle a Bike.

Watching the Water Roll by (Finally)

I was dropped by a very bad cold this week.

Ryan, of Hope and Anchor Plumbing was really kind to me as I wandered in and out of consciousness as he hooked up my precious sink. Hopefully I did not reveal any of my vapor dreams.

I took a few shots of the process as I shuffled in between naps. I think I have fully documented my sink obsession:

I hope that someday I have an excuse to own cool tools like the white wrench pictured here.



I don't know what this is but it looks great -- like a hardware store Sol Lowitt.




And here is a blurry shot of running water.

I repeat running water!

Success.
Hurrah!
Hurray!


Next Step: building a drip catch sheild. (think tarps and hot glue).

New Old News

Hey I just found out that New City Art, a website "dedicated to news, reviews and features about Chicago’s visual art world". Voted Without You I am Nothing, one of the top 5 print shows in Chicago for 2009.

Here's the link.

Hello Gorgeous!

Finally the sink is together.

Here is the chassis is before its spray tan.



The magic of arc welding, no solder just steel throughout the seam.


Primer isn't pretty, but it is necessary.





The fumes started to get to me, I took a lot of pictures.


Now it is home. Awaiting the plumber.

Providence Art Windows Exhibit Extended until October 15th

191 Westminster St
Providence, RI

Studio Build: molten metal

I am in the throws of building out my printshop. Today was my day in the metal shop. Along with a pal, we welded a steal chassis for my wayward sink legs. I still have to prime and paint it to avoid rust, but this was a very productive and successful day of work.
Beyond my undying gratitude for the skills, patience and pedagogy of Andrew O I was bowled over by the magic of arc welding. I might not be satisfied with just dragging a squeege over a screen now that I have used electrodes and gas shields.

Here are a few shots of our endeavors.

my new favorite blue object:


Upside down sink.


AO's best move. Steel is no match for it.



What could be more beautiful than a circle of sparks?

I think we need more drills:


Arc Welder my new best friend:


This is AO's nice looking weld:


This is my first weld:


After a little more angle grinding, and drilling-we have a finished product.



I am impressed with physics once again.

the welding itself was impossible to photograph:
so here is an image from wikipedia, enjoy.

Somehow I knew I would end up in Saftey Equipement

Rhode Island is Buzzing in anticipation of tomorrow. For most it is because the primary election, but for me I have the added activity of welding a skirt for my sink. My trunk is full of Steel and spray paint. What could be better? I promise to take lots of pictures and wear close toed shoes.

I am happy that I might get to wear the dude approved opera gloves in the picture above. Thank you to Skinner Metal Products for the image.