3 Ways You Can Use Steel Fabrication for Crafts

Because of its ability to be cut into pieces, reshaped into different forms, and weld together to build a larger element, steel and other metals are becoming more popular as a versatile material in contemporary arts and crafts. In the present, fabricated steel is now used to build artistic creations ranging from small accessories and handmade crafts to huge sculptures and wall murals.

If you want to create a majestic steel masterpiece that will surely stand the test of time, you may consider using aerospace grade sheet metal which is not as prone to rusting, fading, breakage, and deformation as other sheet metal grades. Spraying a thick layer of clear-coat as a finisher can also help to protect your artwork from fingerprint markings, scratches, stains, dirt, and damage from UV rays. Adding other metals such as bronze and brass, and other insulating materials such as wood and rubber can also add diversity to your masterpiece.

Are you new to using fabricated steel for making crafts? If so, then this article is for you. Learn more about the 3 ways that you can use steel fabrication to make your crafts stand out among the rest. You may also get your steel professionally processed by the best steel fabricator Melbourne.

Cutting, Bending, and Reshaping

Cutting involves using a variety of instruments to achieve the desired size and form of a steel sheet. Remember to always consider the thickness of a metal sheet as thicker steel sheets will take more time and effort to cut. However, thicker steel sheets are more resistant to deformation. Depending on the desired outcome, you may use a combination of cutting instruments in your craft. Automated jigsaw and bandsaw are great for doing quick straight cuts when used with a straight-edge. Nibblers, whether automatic or manual, offer better control for cutting along curves and delicate forms with accuracy. On the other hand, snips are perfect for small and precise cuts on thinner steel sheets.

Bending and reshaping add a new dimension and character to your artwork. If you are using thick materials, then you might need to use tools and machines to help you. Otherwise, you can just use your force to create beautiful bends, twists, swirls, curls, and waves.

Grinding to Create Texture

The process involves using a variety of materials, grit types, angles of grind, and power to create different decorative patterns on the surface of the sheet metal. Although creating consistent textures would definitely take a lot of time and practice, adding grind patterns can instantly add a visual feast to your masterpiece. Try to experiment with different grinding pads, spinning pads, and brushing and scratching tools, then see which one suits your artistic style and preferences.

Coloring

While many people like the natural color of fabricated steel, there are also others who want to add a variety of colors to their crafts. Unlike cutting, bending, and grinding, coloring metal sheets require extra care and more advanced skills. Spray painting will also not ensure that the color will last over time. One of the most common ways of coloring steel is by using heat. Coloring with heat is not very predictable and is dependent on the temperature of the heat source, duration of exposure to heat, humidity, and the type of material used.