Progress Update - Neverland

Sorry it's been a while since my last post. I would say that I was solving world hunger or some other valid reason for neglecting my blog, but since some of you are probably hungry right now, we know that I've just been lazy...

I've been work on getting the new guard carved out of the thicker stock aluminum. I'm starting to hate myself for designing complex shapes for my projects. Here's a progress picture of the new guard:

My next challenge will be anodizing the aluminum to a fantastic dark brass/bronze color. Anybody have any tips? I also have to find material for the acorn-shaped pommel at the end of the grip. Time for a shopping trip!

This is the point of the project that is the most trying. You're not far enough into the project to see the end. You are forced to improvise or try something you are unfamiliar with, or to go shopping and spend money. So for my bit of imparted wisdom: There are 3 dynamics to any project. Time, Money, and Quality. You are usually forced to choose 2 of them.

Say you want to craft or purchase a new outfit for your next event (comic-con/renaissance fair/LARP event/what-have-you). You have several options:

• Pay a lot of money and get a quality product in a reasonable time (VERY expensive),
• Pay less money and get it fast (quality suffers),
• Pay less money and craft it yourself to get high quality (time suffers and is dependent on personal skill).

I've opted for the last option with this project. Let's see how well I do!

Neverland In-Progress

I thought you might appreciate some in-progress pictures this time! I am creating a completely original sword and am very excited and nervous. This sword's design has changed so many times, I can't even remember the original concept that I had. Everything will be handcrafted by me except for the blade, though I am planning some exciting artistic treatments for it as well. Enough talk, let's see some pictures!

Imitation is flattery

Every artist wants to create something unique, something special, and something "all their own". But trying to build up your skills only doing original works can be tough. How do you create that depth? How do you draw wrinkles? How do you get that hand to look right?

I have found two answers to this question. First, is learn as much as possible about your subject. Are you drawing a human? Learn anatomy. By understanding what goes on under the surface, you can more accurately recreate it on paper.

The second method that I have found is to copy other artists. This is especially useful when learning a new art style. I recently found an old book of poems and loved the artwork. I copied one of the drawings and I would like to share it with you.
I do not own the artwork, and cannot remember the original artists name, but I would like to give them proper credit.

So, practice, learn, practice some more! You will become a better artist, and a smarter person!