Double pressed

©2018 Barry Smith - First pressing of the small bowl shapes

I'm in the process of making some small artistic giveaway pieces to recognise local folk who have given to our community through volunteering.

I decided to make small square bowl shapes with the tree of life symbol stamped in the bottom. Why tree of life? Well,  I think the volunteers give folk new beginnings; new leases of life; new growth etc.

I'm making about 50 of the pieces - though I think I might only need about 45. The work of course starts with cutting up an old  serving tray into 35mm squares.

©2018 Barry Smith

©2018 Barry Smith

Stamping the tree of life symbol on the flat metal.

©2018 Barry Smith - Great big old copper hammer for the job

©2018 Barry Smith - Tree of life symbol stamped on silver-plated metal square

Then pressing the stamped squares into bowl shapes. For me this is a two step process: first press the metal in a wooden form I made for jobs such as this; and then pressing the partially shaped pieces into a steel dapping block.

©2018 Barry Smith - First pressing in a wooden form

©2018 Barry Smith - Second pressing in a steel form

©2018 Barry Smith - Left is result of first pressing; and the right is after the second pressing

I have not finished doing the second press on the pieces - that and the rest of the steps in making these small art pieces will be done over the weekend.

©2018 Barry Smith - Some of the 50 have had their second press

©2018 Barry Smith - Tree of life in base of small square bowl shape.

It is time  for me to head off and make a gourmet pizza!!!!!