To FDM or not to FDM

I have been facing a dilemma over recent projects, mainly with the costs of outsourcing.  So I am experimenting with a project at the moment and using FDM printing rather than the usual SLA. Obviously it is cheaper but does the increased finishing work still make it cheaper in the long run? An important question to answer when considering buying a 3d printer. ....

Soda Prop

See what I did there?  ... Nevermind, do excuse the pun, but I have been quite excited to see my recent creations being used to great effect as a photography prop. I love creating stuff, it is my main driving force, but when comparing the satisfaction of completing a project and loving the results, to the satisfaction of them being used in another context.... well, it's a bit like the children moving out once they have all grown up.
Without further nonsense, here is an image (used with permission) from Sleepy Willow Photography of my lovely props... decorated with a baby (obviously the props are the focal point of the image, no?).

Soda'd out

Ok that is a quick foray into retro soda creates.  Massive fun and really enjoyable for my children who had to join in with sanding painting and of course ...health and safety! 
So, that's paint effects played with, I think the next stop is to fiddle around with some wood staining. ...

Rapid aging

Well that's about 40 years in 10 minutes. ... Now I'm thinking of turning it into a child's toy wagon. .. Some wheels will be the next acquisition I think.

Something like the real thing

Well,  you can tell how much I'm enjoying myself by the rapidity of progress.  That is all the stenciling finished, now for the final physical weathering, all paint effects up until now.  Not sure how beat up to make it. ... Time to stick it and see.

Ticking over

Last week, some slate was delivered for the front garden not massively exciting, I grant you - but I was left with a pallet and a hankering for some random creativity. A few quick scribbles and calculations and a pry bar later, it was off to get the tools and get cracking.
I decided to turn my pallet into a vintage soda crate, for only a few hours work, I'm enjoying the results and the distraction of a little side-project.
Still in the early stages, here is a progress shot.

Graduation Done!

Well, my graduation ceremony is all done and dusted, I am officially... actually I'm not quite sure what! There is a video in existence of the event, but uploading it here, the quality is just too dire to bother, Let me just tell you that, as well as my First Class Degree, the prize for longest, awkward (and unexpected) chat with the Chancellor goes to yours truly.

 

And OK, let's get the official portrait out of the way while we are at it!