Using the laser cutter, I created the front of all my letters.
The thickness of my wood was 3mm, so I measured a 3mm border inside each letter. I then used the offcuts of wood to laser some small 3x3cm squares, to attach alongside the border. This would give my wooden borders something to attach to and prevent them from falling over whilst the glue was curing.
These following images show my laborious process -
Measuring each individual edge and angle
Cutting each side on the band saw - concentrating on being precise with every cut
Using resin glue and wood glue to attach each individual piece
Using weights to ensure the pieces stuck
Using clamps to hold them together whilst the glue cured
Filling each finished piece to create an even, perfect surface
Priming each letter with a PVA/Emulsion mix
Painting each letter with white paint to ensure a crisp base for my paints
These pictures show 3 intense weeks of working 5 days each week in the 3D workshop. The process was extremely labour and time intensive, but incredibly satisfying. I made so many mistakes along the way. However, once I got to the 6th and 7th letters, I felt as though I finally understood the process.
If I could change anything, I would make them even bigger. I feel as though now I have made 7 individual letters I am able to confidently make more and have finally cracked the process.
Overall, I am extremely pleased with the outcome. I do believe the hard work (3 weeks in the workshop) was worth it.
When my letters were finally finished, they were able to stand alone which was my goal. A fellow student mentioned how the letters reminded them of the Hollywood sign, which was unintentional but made me think of Post-Modernism. Having researched into Americana signage so heavily for my last project, I had been influenced subconsciously and created a font very close to the Hollywood sign.
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