Weld the pieces of wrought iron together to create a wrought iron sign.
Designing and constructing wrought iron signs is an endeavor for an individual who has a welding machine and the ability to bend the wrought iron into the desired shapes. Wrought iron is used to create signs, candlesticks, railings, fences and sculptures. The possibilities are endless when it comes to the design of a wrought iron item. The dimensions of a wrought iron sign are determined by the area of placement. Paint or powder coat the sign once it is completed to prevent rusting.
Instructions
1. Draw a detailed sketch of the wrought iron sign. Determine whether the sign is framed or the wording will stand alone. Connect the letters and symbols together for a wrought iron sign that does not have a frame. For example, design a sign with an 18-by-36-inch frame. Draw the letters using straight joints and curves. Add a symbol, such as a moon, to the design. Position the symbol so it does not interfere with the reading of the letters.
2. Measure and mark the wrought iron to the predetermined measurements. Draw a moon shape on a piece of paper that is proportionate to the letters. Cut out the moon shape. Trace around the paper moon on a piece of 1/8-inch steel.
3. Cut the wrought iron with a hacksaw or a plasma cutter on the marked lines. Cut the moon shape from the 1/8-inch steel with a plasma cutter.
4. Clear an area on a concrete floor that is 6-by-8 feet. Make sure all combustible items are removed from the area.
5. Place the four pieces of wrought iron together to form the 18-by-36-inch wrought iron frame in the center of the cleared area. Overlap the ends to create the frame. Weld the four corners together.
6. Position all straight pieces of wrought iron within the frame. Bend the remaining pieces by clamping one end in a bench vise. Roll the metal around a pipe for the desired dimension of the curve. Repeat the process until all curves are complete. For example, a 3-inch curve is desired to create the top of an S. Roll the end of the wrought iron around a 3-inch pipe until the desired curve is achieved. Bending wrought iron is very difficult. The process requires brute strength unless an individual owns a wrought iron bending machine.
7. Position the bent pieces of wrought iron in their proper location. Weld the symbol and letters into place to create the sign.
8. Paint or powder coat the finished sign. Pick a color that is easy to read.
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