Testing The Artwork for the top lid

This process is similar to how screen printing is done. Each color is treated as a layer.

The first step is to start with the image and convert it to a vector file which is basically a mathematical conversion of the lines so the image can be stretched to any size without distortion.

Here is the vector with each layer broken out.

With the test mahogany loaded, I am ready to begin the cutting and pigment layering.

Layer 1 is the white circle.

DONE!

Layer 2 is the black rim with the mask outline

And then moving on to the other layers once they have cured.

Here all of the layers have been cut and pigment applied. Note on the left fork the red bled into it. I poured the red, yellow and the second white layers at the same time to speed up this test run. The original will be done more slowly.

Here is a close up of the bleed over.

Now that it is cured, for speed, I am running it through the drum sander. The final run will be handled more delicately.

Notice how the image is coming to life.

But also notice that the left side is still not sanded down but the right side has already gone too far. The white part has been sanded off.

And then to sand flush the left side, it took off the entire right side. This happened because I did not start with a perfectly flat board. I didn't care since this is a test run. The important thing is that the artwork is designed properly and this prototype proved the approach. I will begin the final top board next week.

What did this stage cost?

I used a scrap piece of mahogany and only used about $15 worth of finishing and pigment.

Totaling - $15.00

What is the next stage?

Follow these steps with the final lid.

Have any questions? Ask away!

Mark Petrilla, Gorilla Bark Studio's

Paying tribute to those who keep us safe.