Using the paper templates as a guide for shape and size, I: cut, formed, shaped, moulded, (you name it!) the copper pieces to shape using only a ring mandrel, pliers, nylon hammer and tin snips.
I must admit, it wasn't easy! but I was determined to have these finished for my mothers birthday on Tuesday.
Next up, were the handles. I would have quite happily turned the handles on a wood lathe, darn I love those machines, but I had no wood and no easy access to one of those wonderful, yet dangerous, lathes. Never mind! Amazon to the rescue!
When the handles finally arrived, I then had the problem of fastening them to the copper. No way was I going to solder them! The copper was the perfect shape and hardness (not intended to be rube!). Soldering would soften the metal making it incredibly flexible once again. I did not want to risk hardening it with the possibility of distorting them both.
Rivets it was! Fortunately, my father had a rivet gun and after a few extra components were made, the rivets were riveted and the trumpet then became a trowel.
Yes they are messing and could be much neater but as a gardener, my mum loves them, and as her daughter, all the more so!
Sometimes, the best things in life are made with absolutely no planning, no modelling or prototyping. Leaping into the unknown can create unique pieces and unforgettable memories.
Always leap into the unknown my wondrous Moment-eers!
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