Hot metal : a complete guide to the metal casting of sculpture

This introduction to the art of the metal casting of sculpture combines practical, hands-on instruction with scientifically accurate descriptions of the many processes that a metal sculptor must learn in order to master the craft. Metal sculpture is part of a human tradition that goes back at least 8,000 years. It makes use of all five of the earth's essential elements: earth, air, fire, water, and light. The author, a renowned expert in the field, provides beginners and intermediate-level metal workers and artists with a step-by-step introduction to this complex, but richly rewarding, art form. Table of Contents Acknowledgment And Author Information Chapter 1. Metal Casting—an Introduction Chapter 2. Recommended Tools and Equipment Chapter 3. A Brief History of Metalcasting Chapter 4. Safety and Right to Know Chapter 5. Pattern Making for Sculpture Chapter 6. Spruing and Venting Wax Melt-outs or Burn-outs Chapter 7. Introduction to Molding Chapter 8. Melting and Pouring Metal Chapter 9. Chasing Chapter 10. Patina of Metals Bibliography Appendix A: Molding with Silicon Caulking Compound Appendix B: Weight of Pattern to Weight of Casting Appendix C: Alkyd Oil Resin Binder and Catalyst Percentages Appendix D: Converting Cubic Inches to Sand Weight Appendix E: Sodium Silicate Binder Chart Appendix F: Patina Formulas Appendix G: Fluxing and Degassing Procedures Appendix H: Cupola Appendix I: Cupolette Appendix J: Cupola Design Information Appendix K: Iron Pour Record Sheet Index This book, in it sixth edition, has evolved over the years into a complete guide to the metalcasting of sculpture. Potratz (Ironwain) has taken his years of knowledge gained practicing and teaching his craft and is now sharing it all in this easy-to-use book. Contents include: Introduction to Metal Casting, Recommended Tools and Equipment, Safety, Pattern Making, Sprueing and Venting Wax, Intro to Molding, Melting and Pouring Metal, Chasing, and Patina of Metals. Includes a comprehensive bibliography; an appendix filled with useful conversions, charts, recipes, and cupola/cupolette furnace building specs; detailed index; and much, much, more. This book, in it 6th edition, has evolved over the years into a complete guide to the metalcasting of sculpture. Potratz (Ironwain) has taken his years of knowledge gained practicing and teaching his craft and is now sharing it all in this easy-to-use book. Contents include: Introduction to Metal Casting, Recommended Tools and Equipment, Safety, Pattern Making, Sprueing and Venting Wax, Intro to Molding, Melting and Pouring Metal, Chasing, and Patina of Metals. Includes a comprehensive bibliography; an appendix filled with useful conversions, charts, recipes, and cupola/cupolette furnace building specs; detailed index; and much, much, more This introduction to the art of the metal casting of sculpture combines practical, hands-on instruction with scientifically accurate descriptions of the many processes that a metal sculptor must learn in order to master his or her craft