Miniature Tools

[Ralph Juarros]

Thought some might be interested my miniature tool collection. Ralph


275615

[Ralph Juarros]

Would like to have posted a larger picture of these miniatures but don't know how. Anybody help? Ralph

[Hilton Ralphs]

The size seems fine. Did you make those?

[Ralph Juarros]

Oh, if you click on the picture it displays a larger version. I should have known that.
Yes, I built them of brass with steel blades and exotic wood tote and knob. Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

Here's another. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SleighPlane2003_zps31ca9a39.jpg

[Jim Koepke]

Ralph,

Welcome to the Creek. Your profile doesn't show a location. Where do you call home?

I like the little chariot plane. The others are also very nice.

I used to work with an engineer who had a pocket protector with a row of tiny tools. He would always comment that he had little tools so he could do a little work.

jtk

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Jim. I'm from Colorado (just updated my profile). I am retired but keeping busy building miniatures.


Coach maker's plane:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Coachmakersplane2003_zps8a7fda42.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Coachmakersplane002_zps58cdd578.jpg

[Harold Burrell]

OK...those are like WAY cool! I am always amazed at what folks can come up with and produce around here.

I am impressed. Seriously.

[gary Zimmel]

Those are the sweetest tools I have seen in awhile....
Real nice job Ralph and welcome to the Creek. Nice way to make a splash!

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Gary.
Thanks Harold.


A Rabbet plane in progress. Ralph

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Rabbitplane2_zpsfff3a64d.jpg

[Hilton Ralphs]

From a plural to a singular Ralph, are these tools actually used or are they more for show?

[Jim Belair]

Very nice Ralph. And they just keep coming....

[Jim Koepke]

I would like to see more about the process.

How are the bodies made and then finished?

Great looking pieces.

jtk

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Jim. I do have quite a collection.
And thank you Jim K. It is quite a process. I'll try to outline it some.


First, of course, The idea is developed with awareness of all the pieces / parts needed and how they fit together.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturescraperdrawings003_zps20de1039.jpg


Parts are drawn to scale.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturescraper007_zps9049eeab.jpg


And carefully cut out to ensure proper fit when assembled.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturescraper009_zps64e3b141.jpg


The parts are assembled on a ceramic board (held in place with pins or thin wire) and silver soldered together. This is not like soft lead soldering - it is more like brazing / welding and forms a strong permanent union of pieces.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturescraper020_zpsd0b84a23.jpg


The joined parts are filed smooth then sanded with ever smaller abrasive and finally buffer and polished.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturescraper024_zps517bb8a5.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturescraper042_zpsb1275bf0.jpg


Then drilled and tapped as needed.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturescraper039_zps7498d7a8.jpg


And assembled.


And more polishing of all the parts

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MiniaturescraperV023_zps3bff1bd1.jpg


With attention to details


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MiniaturescraperVI006_zpsfe491b12.jpg


And a finished tool results after a steel blade is fashioned.



http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturescraperfin2007_zps0f22f065.jpg


Sorry that was such a mouth full. It is a complex process, and the results can be quite pleasing.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturescraperfin2002_zpsd7215520.jpg


And if done right,it actually works like the full scale counterpart. I actually do use the miniature tools in my other hobbies - model airplane building (and flying) and in building miniature furniture and other small stuff. Ralph









http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturescraper012_zps2c47a42c.jpg

[Jim Koepke]

Wow! That is some nice work.

I'm still struggling with tuning some wooden hollows & rounds.

Thanks for sharing.

jtk

[Harold Burrell]

Dude,

You haven't even posted 10 times here yet...and you already have a "sticky". Way to make a splash! :D

[Chris Griggs]

Dude,

You haven't even posted 10 times here yet...and you already have a "sticky". Way to make a splash! :D


Indeed! +1

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks guys. I'll keep going then. And what to follow a 212 but a 112. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/112ScraperPlane2001_zps27ea42d0.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/112ScraperPlane2005_zps61698b14.jpg

[David M Anderson]

Am so impressed, my hat is off to you..

[Ellen Benkin]

I just got a mailer from Lee Valley showing some miniature tools. Any comments on those?

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks David. I appreciate your observations.

Ellen, I do believe that Lee Valley mass produces exceptionally beautiful tools and other stuff. I would love to have a set of their miniature planes and have thought about building some at 1/2 scale.

Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SmoothingPlaneEarRings3002_zps1ed680be.jpg

[Andrew Bell]

They look really nice, well done... approximately how much time does it take you to make one from design to completion?

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Andrew. The time involved to build my miniatures varies considerably depending on the complexity of the item, and the fact that I typically build every part from scratch. Some of the "simpler" planes can take 12 to 15 hours. And some of the more complex models can take 40 to 50 hours (over several weeks - I just don't rush it, and often there is the need to build some parts several times over to get it just right) + the time it takes to round up all the supplies, etc. Actually, it often takes me longer to ponder the possibilities and to decide what model I want to build and to sketch up the design to make the product pleasing. Sometimes, though, I just find an actual full scale model and reduce every part to 1/ 4 size ( the scale that I prefer to work in). But, more often, I decide to build a model for which I have no full scale version to copy and could never afford one, which is the primary reason that I want to build that model, so I build from pictures I have found. And sometimes I want to build an old standard common model with complex parts in 1/4 scale and even in precious metals. In short, the time is less difficult to come by than the ideas, materials and, more so, the dedication and patient persistence in building difficult parts in 1/4 scale. Ralph


Jack Rabbit plane


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackRabbetPlaneinhand003_zps081af80d.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackRabbetPlane001_zps0b2f3b57.jpg

[Andrew Bell]

That is faster than I had thought, again very impressive.

Truly a craft within a craft within a craft; the inception of woodworking.

[Jeff Wittrock]

What beautiful little tools! Thanks so much for showing you work and some of the in work progress.
The end result is beautiful, but I especially like seeing all of your sketches.

[Ralph Juarros]

Rabbet plane progress. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Rabbitplane4002_zps613bde9d.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Casting Process - New Sketches. Thanks Jeff.

You are so right, Andrew - crafts within crafts. Sometimes I fabricate pieces, and sometimes more complex pieces must be cast. I use the "Lost Wax process" as outlined below. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/castinginfo_zps58fb40d3.jpg

[Gary Herrmann]

Fantastic work. I love miniature tools. Please keep posting.

[Ralph Juarros]

T bevel, square & gauge. Thanks Gary. Thought some might like this group done in brass and Rosewood. Ralph

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SquaresampMarkingGauge2010_zps393e23d7.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Silver Pipe Wrench - pocket jewelry for the well dressed plumber. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PipeWrenchcomission004_zpsf508ad5a.jpg



The master pattern for the pipe wrench with major components arranged to produce a rubber mold from which wax patterns are derived for lost wax casting. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MasterPatterns002_zpsece9b25b.jpg



Pipe Wrench rubber mold and wax pattern.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Pipewrenchmoldampwax002_zpscc558046.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

A Silver Plane in process. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SilverscraperPlane4002_zpsd6aea266.jpg



http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SilverscraperPlane4004_zpsc6932ff3.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

See video of this micro plane onTouTube under "Miniature Micro Carpentry Jack Plane" Ralph


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbcCJZY6T5o&feature=share&list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A&index=2

[Ralph Juarros]

See video of this micro plane onTouTube under "Miniature Micro Carpentry Jack Plane" Ralph


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbcCJZY6T5o&feature=share&list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A&index=2


Sorry. Didn't mean to post it twice. Still not that good with computers. Ralph
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbcCJZY6T5o&feature=share&list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A&index=2)

[Jessica Pierce-LaRose]

It's all very impressive until you realize they're regular size tools, and Ralph is just an enormous man. :P

No, that's really neat stuff, Ralph! Thanks for sharing - I really like seeing your methods in the posts here as well. My wife and I have been watching a few of your Youtube videos here, and we're mesmerized!

I don't think I can complain about sharpening dovetail saws or working on fretboard inlay anymore!

[Ralph Juarros]

Plane ear rings - My wife especially likes these. Thanks Joshua & wife; I'll post some other pics and videos. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SmoothingPlaneEarRings3003_zps98ca200d.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SmoothingPlaneEarRings003_zps07f7db82.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

The Rabbet plane is finished. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Rabbitplanefin005_zps669d684d.jpg



http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Rabbitplanefin009_zps999cbcf4.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Silver Scraper in progress. Ralph





http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SilverscraperPlane4007_zps6c1cd796.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuild001_zps8dc56a2c.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

The frog is done. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuild005_zps245f9e29.jpg


The body is drilled.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuild3002_zps57412856.jpg


and tapped (0-80)


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuild2005_zps623c728a.jpg

[Don Orr]

Very cool tools Ralph! Nice designs, lines and details.

[Ralph Juarros]

The silver scraper plane is coming along. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuild002_zpsc86543b9.jpg

[Gary Muto]

Ralph,

Your work is amazing! So is your wife for wearing plane earings. Have you made any full size tools?

[Jack Curtis]

Seriously great work, and the most amazing thing is that they all seem to work. That is so cool. Thanks for showing us.

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Jack. Yes, they all work; that's part of my trademark. Saw a cute little plane on the net and just had to have one. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Ebonysmoothingplane003_zps27d1125c.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Ebonysmoothingplane2003_zps969540b8.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Ebonysmoothingplane007_zpsdb02fc11.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Don. I appreciate your thoughts. Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Gary. Yes, my wife just loves the plane earrings. Now she wants a pair in silver - oh well. No, I haven't built any full scale tools, but maybe I can still grow into it. I like 1/4 scale, but the earrings are 1/16. Now 1/4 seems big. Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

I liked the silver and Ebony plane so much that I just had to build one in brass and Rosewood with silver pins. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Ebonysmoothingplanepair003_zpsed01ac35.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Ebonysmoothingplanepair004_zps71a0659b.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Ebonysmoothingplanepair012_zps8290d07c.jpg

[Jim Ritter]

Ralph those are my favorites. Thank you so much for post all of these little gems.
Jim

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Jim. They are among my favorites too - must be, I built two, which I rarely do. I'll post others as they come about. Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

Monkey wrench - just for a change of pace. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MiniatureMonkeywrench003_zpsd10fbb32.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

CenterWheel Plow Plane miniature build thread. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlanePlans_zpse88476c4.jpg


Rosewood body?

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlanebody002_zpsf2f415f8.jpg


Cocobolo body?


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlanebody004_zps62480761.jpg


One of each. Which to use? The rosewood body is solid and rich in color but lacks grain structure. The Cocobolo has good grain structure but is more brittle.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlanebody005_zpsbb642f58.jpg

[Jack Curtis]

CenterWheel Plow Plane miniature build thread. One of each. Which to use? The rosewood body is solid and rich in color but lacks grain structure. The Cocobolo has good grain structure but is more brittle.

Hmmm, they're both toxic to me, that old poison ivy effect. Have you considered Live Oak? Even heard of it?

[Ralph Juarros]

Whoa, Jack. I didn't know about the toxic effects. I have heard about and have seen Live Oak trees but don't think that I've seen Live Oak lumber. Since I've already carved two difficult to build bodies, I will go with the Cocobolo body and see how it turns out. If it is not pleasing, I'll consider carving a third. Ralph


Using the miniature saw to prepare the wood body..


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DSCF1608_zps61074db4.jpg


Both sides of the wood body are clad with brass cut, drilled and tapped to accommodate other parts.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlane3002_zpsfaca7d3c.jpg

[Andrew Bell]

So, how do you sharpen the teeth of the minature saw? a 1" xxxx-slim taper file?

[Ralph Juarros]

Hi Andrew. Actually, I use commercial crafts blades cut to size then affix brass backs and carved exotic wood handles. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturesaws003_zps78badfb1.jpg


See some in action here.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84o1OlXF-7A&feature=share&list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A&index=5

[Jack Curtis]

Coco is sure pretty. Actually it may not be toxic to me if it's just a matter of using rather than making dust, but I just don't want to play with it. Great little saws, too.

[Ralph Juarros]

It's coming along. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlane2003_zps2a674a82.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Worked on the fence some. This was a trick to build with multiple tiny components and complicated precise operations. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlane3004_zps4211a9af.jpg

[maximillian arango]

This is crazy! I hope I can make full sized ones by the end of next year.

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Maximillian. Here comes the really crazy part. Just stay after it, and you will get one done. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlane3005_zpsca230a17.jpg


Now some odds and ends and trim, buff & polish.

[maximillian arango]

I showed this to a few guys at work and they thought this was so cool. I have a few questions now that I've had some time to look over this if you don't mind me asking?

Do you make the hardware on your own or just get blanks and use dies?

What do you use for your brazing(silver soldering) as far as torch and solder go?

What kind of brass do you use?

Where do you get your material from?

I am going to try to make a plow plane after I refurbish the plane(s) I have bought for practice/learning. I just want to start collecting tools that I may need.

[Ralph Juarros]

Well Maximillan, here this one is about finished.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlane4003_zps26e12e5c.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlane5014_zpsbbaa6e6e.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlane5015_zps2dae7327.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlane5007_zps19440399.jpg


To your questions:
I hand cut and form every piece from scratch of exotic wood (Cocobolo used in this one), Brass flat and round stock from hardware or hobby stores, some tiny screws / nuts & bolts ordered from Micro-fasteners store. I have also found some metal and wood stock on the internet.

Silver soldering is not like soft lead soldering; it is more like brazing/welding. I usually use a butane micro torch, but for larger parts I sometimes need to use an oxy/act torch, and I use brazing flux sparingly. The tools I employ are basic and simple--jewelers saws and files, X-acto carving blades and a simple small bench drill press. For the threaded parts I use tap and die sets purchased at micro-tool sites. Mostly keep in mind that I am a scavenger first and am known to repurpose items I find.

Just jump in and try it. You will grow as you go along. Ralph

[Dan Hintz]

How did I miss this thread the first time around?

Those are amazing, Ralph! I absolutely love minature stuff like this, but haven't had the patience since I was a kid making Tamiya models.

Do you ever sell them, and if so, what kind of prices are you commanding?

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Dan. I am more of a builder and collector of miniature things, though I have gifted some items to special people. I might consider a commissioned piece, but the time invested in each item would make it pricy. Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

Bullnose Plane. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Bullnoseplane003_zps167f8be7.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Bullnoseplane2002_zpse2154b9d.jpg

[maximillian arango]

This has been my favorite thread I check back every day to see if you posted something new, how many do you have?

[Ralph Juarros]

Hi Maximallian. I'm glad that you have enjoyed this thread. In response to your question, I don't know any more - lost track some time ago. But I did recently round some up for a group picture. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/miniplanespic_zpsf14bb375.jpg


To see an "action" video go to my YouTube page http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Y_0s_dzLcM&feature=share&list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A

[David M Anderson]

Wow..!
What kind of jeweler saw and set up do you recommend?
I am still in awe of your masterpieces.

[Jim Ritter]

Very nice family photo there Ralph. How long have you been doing these?

Jim

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Jim. It's been a lifetime - on and off as I tended to family and career. Much more intensely since retirement and to fill the voids of empty nest syndrome.

Well David, I use the most basic and simple tools - $7 jewelers saw frame and extra blades of varying size and a simple $5 set of jewelers files. Both are available at most hobby stores, hardware and jeweler supply stores. I also use a small anvil and vise and a cutting block and cheap butane torch. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Jewelerssawampfiles002_zps3a9a607d.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/jewelerssawsampfilesamptools004_zpsd1754f7b.jpg

[David M Anderson]

Thank you for the reply, with that void you not only have created masterpieces for yourself and for others to view.
I have to look at this thread every time I come to this forum, I do not want to miss nothing.
:)

[Dan Hintz]

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/miniplanespic_zpsf14bb375.jpg


A few tweaks of the surrounding background and this would make a very nice desktop background pic.

[Ralph Juarros]

Dan, you may be right. Thanks. I hadn't thought about that, but did consider everything that would appear in the frame and strategically omitted some stuff and placed some items for effect - and maybe got it too cluttered - such is my brain - I think. Ralph

[maximillian arango]

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is so awesome!!!!!!


What are the hammers mounted to? Can you actually use the hammers as well the handles must be tooth picks?



As far as the desk top pick 1+ but if you haven't already you need a mini plane till!

You are too cool!

[Ralph Juarros]

Hi Maxmillian.

The hammers? Well. . . I also build hammers and other tools - not just planes. These hammers were cast together in a plaster mold. Often I cast multiple parts in one mold so that I can more efficiently do it in one pour. This pair were cast like that - head to head and came out like Siamese twins. It was such a nice looking sculpture that I didn't have the heart to separate them, so I finished and polished them and put handles on them. Now they are a trophy work of art symbolic of something. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturetwinhammers005_zps3166c0a2.jpg


This was actually cast upside down from its current position. The base is actually the sprure where the molten silver was poured in. Ralph

[Chris J Anderson]

That thud!... Was my jaw hitting the floor,

your work is awesome, thanks for sharing
cheers,
Chris, West Aussie.

[maximillian arango]

Please just call me Max, when ever I am called Maximillian I'm being scolded lol but if you would rather call me Maximillian its cool too you've earned by providing me the kid in a toy shop feeling. I really like how you intended to make hammers and ended up with tool art, but hey everything you make is art and still usable which makes it even better. I know you may not have a cut and dry answer but which is your favorite one?

[Ralph Juarros]

Hi Max. Thanks again for your thoughts. I have always liked fine art in its many forms and am proud to be a contributor as well as an appreciator. My favorite piece is typically the one that I am currently working on. However, over time some remain more memorable due maybe as much to my state of life and disposition of the moment as to other qualities. But I am especially proud of some pieces that are unique in the world with limits or elements that no one else has yet achieved - such as the 1/4 scale fully functioning silver #4 planes that I have built. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silver4-5_zps547e4161.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silver4-1_zps2a48038c.jpg



and the gold one.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess114008_zpsd75f7089.jpg

or my 1/4 scale Infill dovetailed models.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/3DoveTailfin2002_zps870e3837.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/3DoveTailfin3015_zpseeb28a8c.jpg


etc.

[maximillian arango]

Again your work is perfect! I like the dovetailed ones so much.

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks again Max.

And thank you Chris J.


I did post an "improved" video on Youtube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZgUuEFBeEk&feature=share&list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A

Ralph

[Shawn Pixley]

My miniature knives.

277873277872


.

[Ralph Juarros]

Shawn, those miniature knives are very nice. Gives me ideas. Thanks for posting. Do you have others you can post? Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

Tool board and bench for miniature tools. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WorkBenchampToolboard003_zps045a3a82.jpg

[maximillian arango]

I just showed that to my girlfriend she said that "you're crazy" so that puts you somewhere in the realm of michelangelo because she thinks he was crazy too.


This is far better than the plane till I brought up earlier and by the way I hope I can have a collection as good as yours but in full size. lol

[Dan Hintz]

Tool board and bench for miniature tools. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WorkBenchampToolboard003_zps045a3a82.jpg

Now THIS is a proper PC desktop background...

[Ralph Juarros]

She's probably right Max. One doesn't have to be crazy to do this, but it helps. And if I wasn't crazy, I'd go insane. Check out the action video. Ralph


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9XXJ2tUhOU&feature=share&list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A&index=6

[Ralph Juarros]

Hi Dan. Again I hadn't thought about it as a desk top background. But I do now. Thanks. I'll use it that way. Check out my video of it. Ralph


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9XXJ2tUhOU&feature=share&list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A&index=6

[Ralph Juarros]

I have built a variety of miniature tools employing the lost wax process and have been asked to post elements of the procedures I employ. This is an ancient art that has been modified and "improved" over time. I have added some modifications that I have experimented with which make the art a doable home hobby. Ralph


This post outlines the build process for a Monkey Wrench.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Monkeywrenchmoldamppattern2002_zps71bd84d1.jpg


A master pattern is built and packed with uncured rubbed in a metal frame then baked to vulcanize. The rubber mold is carefully cut open to remove the master pattern then used to produce multiple exact wax patterns.The mold halves are lubricated and ready for injection.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Mastermold-empty_zps2d24d64b.jpg


Wax is injected.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Mastermoldwaxinjector_zpsb03e4702.jpg


Wax patterns are carefully removed from the rubber mold, and a "tree" is formed with three patterns. This will call for a 3oz pour, and that is about as much as I can safely handle at this time.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Monkeywrenchtreeof3_zps905ef3f8.jpg


The patterns are mounted at the bottom of a casting flask (in this case a 10oz soup can.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/3waxincan_zps5198540f.jpg


Plaster is mixed and debubbleized in an improvised vacuum chamber on a custom built vibration table.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/plastercansinvacuumpump_zps41269b73.jpg


The flasks are placed in an oven to melt out the wax (lost wax) and hard bake the plaster molds.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/plastercansinoven_zps59346c74.jpg


When well baked in high heat, molten metal will be injected (shot) into the cavities in the molds.

[Dan Hintz]

Reminds me of how they cast finger pieces for flutes, clarinets, etc. Build a tree of the individual wax pieces, then cast them all at once.

[Ralph Juarros]

The mold is in the centrifuge ready for casting. This is the most exciting part of the process and the part with the greatest risk where it can go dangerously wrong. This machine is a "broken arm" spring wound instrument that slings the molten metal into the cavity in the plaster mold. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/plastermoldincenterfuge_zpsfdd35f8e.jpg


The cast "button" at the top of the mold is indication of a successful cast. it is from this button that the piece in the mold draws material as it cools and tends to shrink - the reason for using 50% more metal than the castings call for.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/plastermoldbutton_zps827deb56.jpg


After the mold is broken open, there is evidence that it was a good cast. Next the cast is washed thoroughly and prepared for separation of the pieces.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/3castpieces_zps1bc2f583.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/piecescutoff_zpsdeb222a9.jpg


cutting, filing, sanding, buffing & polishing will follow.


Other operations - drilling and tapping as needed.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/piecesdrilledtapped_zps88411ddb.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

filing, sanding, buffing and polishing


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/piecesfiled_zps4e7e8841.jpg


And a finished product with fine grained wood accents results. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/monkeywenchfin001_zps332aa64a.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/monkeywenchfin005_zps600d1b9a.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Couple related items. These two casting trees may have nothing directly to do with woodworking, but are examples of a procedure in the lost wax casting process which I sometimes use to build woodworking planes. Ralph


A set of 4 hammer heads still "on the tree" resembling a flower. Just didn't have the heart to separate them.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/castingtreesjacks010_zps7083acfa.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/castingtreesjacks008_zpsd95216f1.jpg


A set of solid Gold jacks.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/castingtreesjacks004_zpsc2db5477.jpg


Cut from the tree and buffed. Now need polishing and the companion ball. These trees are on 1/4 inch background graph paper.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/castingtreesjacks002_zpsda9dbf40.jpg

[Jack Curtis]

...A set of 4 hammer heads still "on the tree" resembling a flower. Just didn't have the heart to separate them.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/castingtreesjacks008_zpsd95216f1.jpg
...

I would think that an odd number of petals would be closer to reality, so either 3 or 5 would look better. Right? :)

[David M Anderson]

I would think that an odd number of petals would be closer to reality, so either 3 or 5 would look better. Right? :)
I would like to think "rarity" as in finding a four leaf clover.. =];)

[Ralph Juarros]

Some don't. Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

Some do. :) Ralph


https://www.google.com/search?q=four+petal+flowers&client=firefox-a&hs=Mjb&sa=N&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&channel=np&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&ei=UGrNUszJCILmoASxqoKQAg&ved=0CCwQsAQ&biw=1920&bih=917

[Jack Curtis]

Dang, and I'd thought I was being so careful to avoid the wrath of the 4 petals. Besides, I was talking about the hammer heads. Right? :)

[Ralph Juarros]

Of course you are both right, Jack and David, and I appreciate your thoughts and interest.
On every casting tree I try to position as many pieces as possible, yet leaving enough room for a substantial plaster wall between the pieces in the mold to avoid ruptures.
As an amateur, I have done as many as 10 rings on one tree. The real pros do up to 100 in casting factories.
My intent was to demonstrate that lost wax casting can be done well and affordably at home.
There are no real rules but a high regard for safety. Manipulating high heat and molten metal can be dangerous.
And yet, I say that it is so intense that it is hardly worth doing unless the piece holds high personal value.

But when this:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/4planebuild007_zpscf741df8.jpg


becomes this:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess104001_zps89c9e9fc.jpg


and, ultimately, this:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess114005_zpsa4f76fbe.jpg



http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess114016_zpscc2b94cc.jpg


I forget how difficult, complex and dangerous the process was, and I just appreciate the results

Ralph

[Jack Curtis]

Well, I think this is all very cool. A somewhat interesting tidbit is that when I was very young, around 8 years old or so, I started studying archaeology off to the side. This is where I first read about the "lost wax process." Since it all was based on digging up old stuff, I thought that there was some old "wax process" used to make beautiful gold art but that we had forgotten ("lost") knowledge of the process and no longer knew how to do it. To this day I have to correct myself every time I read "lost wax process."

[Ralph Juarros]

Actually Jack, you may be right. My first understanding is that the lost wax casting process had become a forgotten (lost) process in the Western world, though is is now believed, based on advanced archaeology, that variations of the process have been used in the old worlds as far back as 3700BC as per items found in Southern Israel. The process is believed to have been lost in the Western world due primarily to selfish zealot rulers who, not only had molds of unique precious items destroyed so that no one else could have such items, they ultimately had the artist put to death to ensure that no other copies could ever exist, and the art died with the artists. It is my understanding that the process was rediscovered in the West only recently (19th) century by a dentist looking for a better way to make false teeth. If the process had been known before that, George Washington would not have had clumsy wooden or ivory teeth. Archaeology and further research may yet teach us different. My story is much like yours. These are the primary reasons that I decided to explore the art - to demonstrate that it could be done with limited equipment and materials. It might be that there are other truths to be learned. Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

Miniature hammers and more. I know that this may have little to do with wood work but thought some might find it of interest. Ralph


See action video on YouTube. Ralph


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARI533ZplhM&feature=share&list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/minaturetoolsphoto_zps8cea701e.jpg

[Jack Curtis]

Actually Jack, you may be right. My first understanding is that the lost wax casting process had become a forgotten (lost) process in the Western world, though is is now believed, based on advanced archaeology, that variations of the process have been used in the old worlds as far back as 3700BC as per items found in Southern Israel....

Fascinating that two perfectly reasonable interpretations of an ambiguous phrase ("lost wax process") can describe alternative courses of history. Also describes how those in charge generally wreck things in the name of power and/or money (like our illustrious captains of industry giving away our technology to make money, so we not only lose the control of the technology, we have to pay for its loss). Thanks for telling me maybe as a child I had the right instincts.

I watched a couple of your new videos, very interesting, I loved the little #12 scraper and the router. I'll work through the remaining ones day by day.

[Ralph Juarros]

I have a small collection of little table vises.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOld4007_zps945ff6c7.jpg


And have decided to build a miniature version - about 2/3 scale of the smallest one I have:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith2017_zpsd9f763cb.jpg


That would make it about 2 1/4 inches tall. I have a good start and can visualize it well.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith2015_zpsa7571ab2.jpg


Now I just have to get down to building one. I plan to build wax models and cast it in sterling silver. Ralph

[Jim Ritter]

Those are nice Ralph. I have one very similar to those. I'd love to make a special sized one in bronze. But I'm not up to that task yet. I love seeing the things you've made and am interested in seeing how you do this one.
Jim

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Jim. I appreciate your interest.


I have a Good start. I've wrapped my head around this vise and can see it in three dimensional space.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith2015_zpsa7571ab2.jpg



Next I'll cut and carve the hard wax into the proper form then cast it to build a master pattern
from which will result a rubber mold to produce casting copies. This will be a long process. I'll try to document and post.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith002_zpse22b4f45.jpg


As Michelangelo once replied when asked how he could sculpt such a fine elephant out of a block of marble, " All that needs to be done is to remove from the block everything that doesn't look like an elephant." I'm no Michelangelo, but I think that I know what a table vise looks like, and removed from the block of wax all the parts that didn't look like one and added flow channels and cosmetic touches.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith004_zps4b6a5154.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith006_zpsde1bdf94.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

The pattern is placed in a flask

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith013_zps863a8d15.jpg


and the investment is prepared (like pancake batter)


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith2029_zps9ebad430.jpg


The investment is degassed in a vacuum chamber on a shake table.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith2022_zps7d8cae42.jpg


And baked in incrementally higher temperatures to solidify and to melt out the wax (lost Wax)


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/plastercansinoven_zps59346c74.jpg

[Jack Curtis]

This is so cool to watch, an opportunity to finally learn how the rediscovered lost wax process actually works. Thanks, Ralph.

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Jack. I am glad that you can appreciate this process. Soon the piece will be finished, and we will be proud to have a unique piece that was built at home. Now comes the most exciting procedure - the actual casting. When I started this hobby I carved "split half" wood patterns and used a cope and drag container to do gravity castings. I also built split half molds of plaster for gravity casting. This ball peen hammer resulted from a gravity cast in a plaster mold. The head is 1 inch long, and the handle is 3 inches long.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/castingmoldballpeen2002_zps06eebfd7.jpg


In time I needed to cast pieces with greater detail and explored the "Lost Wax" casting process. A brief outline of the steps taken in preparation to cast a complex piece is listed above. A master wax pattern has been produced, encapsulated in investment (plaster), baked in incrementally higher temperatures to solidify the mold and to melt out the wax (Lost Wax) leaving a cavity into which molten metal will be "shot" in a spring driven centrifugal casting machine. This creates a more dense and detailed piece than gravity casting. And it is appreciably more exciting, dangerous and risky since molten metal is in fast motion (more like a bullet shot from a gun than an apple falling from a tree). In the past I have mistakenly misaligned the mold and crucible in which the metal is made molten, and when the spring was released molten metal splattered all over. Other times the mold has ruptured and the metal was lost (I hate it when that happens - especially when casting gold). In short, much care must be taken throughout, and impressive results will prevail.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/plastermoldincenterfuge_zpsfdd35f8e.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith2006_zps9381296a.jpg


When all goes well and the mold cools and is broken open


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith3001_zpsd3dc7fb6.jpg


Beautiful results can occur making the long and laborious process very much worth it. And there is yet no better way to do this than by the ancient and long lost and rediscovered process.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith3002_zps203d4843.jpg



http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith3003_zpsb11c4b90.jpg


And when cleaned up:



http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith3004_zps32cfbbc5.jpg


Now this process is repeated to produce the front jaw of this miniature vise.


Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

It's coming along. Rubber mold built.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOldrubber001_zps96869c7b.jpg


Wax copies made


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOld6003_zps7651cf65.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOld6011_zps0082652d.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOld6009_zpse33952f6.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

All went well - not easy, but all's well that ends. Ralph


Thank you all for following the build process and for encouraging me along the way. I will post a few preliminary pictures today as I continue to document the process and hope to have more and a video up soon, although I am not as handy with a camera as with a saw and file. Ralph

For comparison - the final and the original after which it was patterned.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Visefin4011_zpsa4ddabf0.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Visefin4010_zps4c59e358.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Visefin015_zps41d18c22.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Visefin012_zps4855b953.jpg


See the action video on YouTube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CTModW5hdg&list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A&feature=share

[Cody Armstrong]

Mr. Ralph, thank you for sharing your talent and explaining the process. Your work is fascinating. :)

Cody

[Jack Curtis]

Ralph, it's a relief to see you don't have to use automated shakers and breakers all the time. Thanks for this latest message. I also really like the idea of using a mouse trap for a vise mount, hadn't considered how convenient they would be for preformed, cheap platforms.

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Cody

Thanks Jack. If by " automated shakers and breakers " you mean sophisticated equipment", it does represent what I meant to demonstrate - that fine results can be had with simple tools and equipment. After all, this is an ancient art developed before most tools and equipment existed, and it can be done inexpensively at home.

[Jack Curtis]

Thanks Jack. If by " automated shakers and breakers " you mean sophisticated equipment", it does represent what I meant to demonstrate - that fine results can be had with simple tools and equipment. After all, this is an ancient art developed before most tools and equipment existed, and it can be done inexpensively at home.

Yeah, I guess. :) However, for the "into automated machines" message, it was a bit formidable. I had visions of having to build another workshop to house/use the several moving machines. But they all made sense to refine the process, and the prospect of having to use second best methodology is a little daunting.

[Ralph Juarros]

New chisel plane. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Chiselplane002_zpsf938d082.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Chisleplane3004_zpscbf89be0.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Chisleplane2001_zps8964f587.jpg


May not be all that useful, but it is a beautiful tool and made a nice functional miniature. Ralph

[Jack Curtis]

The fit and finish of your work continues to astonish. Thanks for showing us more of it.

[Ralph Juarros]

Jack, Thank you. I'm glad that you are still watching. I'll continue to post as things develop. Ralph

[Jim Ritter]

I'm not posting 'cause I'm speechless. But I'm watching and learning. I like how the vise turned out, and the chisel plane, etc.
Can't remember all but have you ever done a tool box to scale to house them? Did you build your centrifuge? I have a small one from a dentist lab used for making crowns and such so mostly too small for what I'm thinking, but who knows.
Jim

[Ralph Juarros]

Hi, Jim. And thanks for your thoughts. I have often thought about building a tool box and have built several but haven't decided on a particular shape and form that would best accommodate my collection or parts of it.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ToolBoxes003_zpsc64f38b9.jpg


I have built a miniature bench and tool board with winded side doors, but as my collection grows, more space is needed.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ToolBoxBench006_zpsc3fb57b6.jpg


Interestingly, I got my centrifugal casting machine from an old dentist. It is a little larger than some I've seen, and, yet, it is pushing it to do a cast over 3.0 ounces. Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

A Valentine gift for wife. She loves woodwork and hand tools. And yes, they actually shave wood. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MicroMiniJackplanepair3002_zps4b76724c.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MicroMiniJackplanepair007_zps3d1ccf1a.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SmoothingPlaneEarRings003_zps07f7db82.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SmoothingPlaneEarRings3003_zps98ca200d.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Axes collection. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Axesminiature002_zpsa0a36289.jpg


Comparative scale.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Axesminiature004_zps91937c45.jpg

[Jim Ritter]

Beautiful Ralph. Just amazing, but you've heard it before I'm sure.
Jim

[Ralph Juarros]

Jim, I very much appreciate hearing your thoughts. Thank you. Ralph

[Jack Curtis]

Ralph, you always make me smile with delight, not just the tools but the entire scene. Thanks.

[Ralph Juarros]

Well Jack, you're a clever guy yourself. I appreciate your interest and opinion. Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

Miniature saws - a collection just for fun but useful in building small projects. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/keyholesaw004_zps71812e43.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Dove Tail & Miniature Miter Saws handy for small work. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturesaws003_zps78badfb1.jpg

[maximillian arango]

What size file do you use to for sharpening? lol

[Ralph Juarros]

Hi, Max (and girlfriend).

I appreciate your interest. I use a very very small file for sharpening.
Just kidding - I actually use commercial hobby saw blades cut to size and drilled to fit and typically fitted with a pressed brass hard back.

Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

A couple of stair maker saws. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/stairmakersaws007_zpsc52b7646.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

A pair of miniature hand saws. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MiniatureSaws007_zps3fc4ddf5.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MiniatureSaws003_zps409d3475.jpg

[maximillian arango]

Quick question what kind of wood and finish are you using I like the way your handles came out.

[Ralph Juarros]

Hi, Max.
I appreciate your observations, and your question is interesting. It is one that I continue to ponder and explore. For miniature tools, such as these two saws, I like to use tight-grained wood that appears genuine with miniature tools. With these two items I used Cocobolo and Bocote for that small, tight grain appearance. Large grained wood does not appear genuine at that small scale. I have explored many domestic and exotic wood types for this purpose including Mahogany, Rosewood, Walnut, and even Misquite to achieve the desired miniature appearance. But I continue to experiment with wood types that would lend the proper look and am open to suggestions. I would appreciate any ideas? For the finish on wood articles I like to use pure Tung Oil--hand rubbed a thousand times. Thanks again for your interest.
Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

Remember this 1/4 scale Bull nose plane?


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Bullnoseplane003_zps167f8be7.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Bullnoseplane002_zpsa2925bb2.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Bullnoseplane2002_zpse2154b9d.jpg


Then came 1/8 scale:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MiniBullnoseplanes3007_zps6a70be4d.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MiniBullnoseplaneshand003_zps95a84bf7.jpg


Then, what else but 1/16 (or Pistachio) scale:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MicroMiniBullnoseplane2003_zpse1d69528.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MicroMiniBullnoseplane2001_zps33e05c09.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MicroMiniBullnoseplane006_zpsee9cfa37.jpg


And, yes, they all actually work

Ralph

[Jack Curtis]

Amazing bull noses, I might even use a tiny one (never do the standard size ones).

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Jack. Little planes are well suited for small projects, but I'd keep the bigger ones just in case. . . Ralph

[Jack Curtis]

Thanks Jack. Little planes are well suited for small projects, but I'd keep the bigger ones just in case. . . Ralph

I've proven to myself that larger bull noses don't do anything for me, much prefer a chisel. Think it's time to sell that one LN that's been sitting in a box forever. I am thinking of actually starting a project to make several miniature boxwood planes. Not as small as yours, though, would be more or less impossible in boxwood.

[Ralph Juarros]

I build special boxes for special things, and I tend to build special things of many sorts.
The "package" is important and reflective of the "gift" it contains.
This is also the case in proper presentation of a trophy or work of art.
And as much attention to design and construction of the box is employed as in that of the item that it complements.

Sometimes the box is designed to contain a particular item.



http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/LittleBoxes004_zps98f6a835.jpg


In this case, batteries, wire harness, switches and lights.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/LittleBoxes005_zps944d97d5.jpg


And on the box is a custom designed miniature (of course) solenoid pendulum engine.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/LittleBoxes008_zps9678c8e7.jpg


See it in action on you tube:


http://youtu.be/J4sgMcHpB4k


See other items under " miniatures by Art Rafael"

[Ralph Juarros]

Miniature ACME wrenches - a recent build. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ACMEWrench016_zps88c74494.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ACMEWrench021_zps7d00cbf7.jpg


A comparative scale


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ACMEWrench2003_zpsf22120ab.jpg


and now we have two


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ACMEWrench2009_zps34e53239.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Since this is primarily a woodworking forum, I am demonstrating the process I often employ in the design and construction
of an all metal item beginning with construction of the wood model prototype.


First the pieces are prepared - shaved and cut to size. In the case of building miniature tools, typically other miniature tools are best suited for the job.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WoodWrench002_zps0969ae21.jpg


then carefully measured, marked, cut to size and drilled if / as needed


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WoodWrench004_zps28ba79e9.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WoodWrench005_zps8d095c6a.jpg


Some prototype components must be fashioned of metal. In this case brass is used,
but in the final version a silver wire will be carefully measured, twisted and threaded.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WoodWrench007_zps56179df2.jpg


Then all the parts are fitted together to yield a sample of size, form, shape and feel (eye appeal). The background graph paper is 1/4 inch squares.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WoodWrench010_zpsf5765a37.jpg


Comparative scales:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WoodWrench012_zpsd4140aad.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WoodWrench014_zpsd62a6c7b.jpg


Since I find it pleasing and now have now discovered the way to proceed and pitfalls to avoid,
I will next build a silver model - perhaps several. But there will ever be only one unique wood prototype. Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

Silver 1/3 scale wrench along side the wooden prototype. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/1-3Wrench1-4008_zps939e0195.jpg


Together with the 1/4 scale wrench


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/1-3Wrench1-4009_zps1e410772.jpg


A comparative scale


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/1-3Wrench1-4013_zps13e11da9.jpg

[Federico Mena Quintero]

This is absolutely incredible. I am in awe!

So... are you making an anarchist's toolchest the size of a lunchbox? :)

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks, Federico. I appreciate your thoughts. Yes, I have built a tool board and bench but now do need a larger tool box for the collection:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ToolBoxBench006_zpsc3fb57b6.jpg


See an action video on youtube at


http://youtu.be/B9XXJ2tUhOU


along with other videos under "Miniature tools by Art Rafael"

[Ralph Juarros]

My collection of miniature tools is growing - one piece at a time. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/miniplanespic_zpsf14bb375.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/minaturetoolsphoto_zps8cea701e.jpg

[Jim Koepke]

Those little hammers are handy for folks who like peanut brittle.

Beautiful stuff.

jtk

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks Jim. I love peanut brittle - - and miniature tools. My miniature tools are what I call "Pocket Jewelry for the Well Dressed" (c). -- a pipe wrench for a plumber, a monkey wrench for the mechanic, etc.
I always take some with me wherever I go, and those who know me ask to see what's in my pocket each time. I usually have a new tool to show
and am gratified to see that friends appreciate my work. Here is a picture of some of my wrenches and master patterns. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/1-3WrenchtwoRing004_zps0f142b81.jpg


A comparative scale:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/1-3WrenchtwoRingpic003a_zps30bbbf52.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Back to woodworking tools. My wife just loves her new earrings. And they actually work to shave tiny wood. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Earringplane005_zps671eef8d.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Earringplane2005_zps1ce0ffc3.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Earring Plane action video:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbcCJZY6T5o&feature=share&list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A&index=7

[Ralph Juarros]

"A lever and a place to stand" : I have been pondering the idea to build a miniature model of an old timey car / wagon jack and have looked for a full scale model or suitable pictures for quite some time but have not yet found one like the one I remember from days gone by. As I remember, it did ratchet up mechanically, and a small click lever held it up while the handle was lowered to ratchet up another stroke. It worked similarly in the lowering mode. But I have been unable to visualize the the relative components and mechanical interaction of that jack and decided to build a model of one that I could visualize and whose picture I found on the net.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Jackmini008_zps5c94b054.jpg


I did not photo document the build process since its design is very straight forward as evidenced by the finished model. And yet its operation is quite sophisticated in that the effort and resistance arms are configured on different planes and anchored on an elbowed fulcrum point allowing it to lock-over at the completion of the stroke. I didn't invent this mechanical marvel - only learned to appreciate it more as I attempted to create a miniature version.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Jackmini016_zps2dd18301.jpg


Since this model was built entirely from bar stock (brass), and no cast parts were used, it is noteworthy that it required some complicated and delicate silver soldering operations. On various parts, several soldering operations were performed in sequence employing different solder hardness under carefully regulated temperatures so that one soldering operation would not cause prior joints to overheat and fall apart. Several times I messed up and had to start over.
This was a challenging project that helped me better appreciate mechanical relationships and learn torch temperature control. Ralph


Comparative scale:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Jackmini018_zps2f1a6846.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Jackmini003_zps73afdd2c.jpg




See the action video on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQiS_-uEK3U&list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A&feature=share

[Ralph Juarros]

I have started a new project - another miniature jack.
This one will have a compound ratcheting mechanism that can deliver several lifting strokes and a pawl that locks each lift in place while the effort arm takes subsequent lifting strokes.
I'll spare you the verbage this time and post sequenced fabrication photos.

Brass flat stock cut to size


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII002_zps1a82b843.jpg


Some parts configured and silver soldered to form post, host and base components.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII005_zpsf9b7807f.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII012_zps28ae374f.jpg


All parts are painstakingly formed by hand. No sophisticated machinery is employed, but I am well familiar with jeweler's saws and files.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII026_zps0be3f4a7.jpg



Seven Ratchet teeth cut and Seven to go.
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII029_zps527a7a05.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII016_zpsfa093ded.jpg


More as it develops. Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

Progressing slowly, and it's beginning to take shape. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII2002_zpsbea2267d.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII2005_zps79e0e5df.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Sometimes the small parts are the most challenging to fabricate, but things are coming together. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII2008_zpsc8dec011.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII2010_zps72aa511f.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII2015_zps2e49080e.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

The mechanical lever lifting jack is finished. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII4ampBic012_zps0f88a69c.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII4ampBic014_zps10b680f0.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII4ampBic015_zpsbcbf6e49.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII4ampBic028_zpsc7c0f5de.jpg


See the action video on YouTube:

http://youtu.be/wvQAXxTgQJE?list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A

[Ralph Juarros]

Miniature framing hammers. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DansHammer001_zpsec0de456.jpg


Built 1/4 scale master wax pattern:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DansHammer006_zps0cfa1280.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DansHammer008_zps8a00bc01.jpg


Then built silicone mold:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DansHammermold1_zps7a590cb4.jpg



And soft wax patterns:



http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DansHammermold2_zpse4e4e033.jpg

And Hickory handles:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DansHammer2010_zps33427f4d.jpg


And lost wax cast three heads:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DansHammercast1_zps1ad06931.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DansHammercast2_zps18bc1631.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Progress. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DansHammertwonobuff_zps189fb564.jpg

[Jim Koepke]

Looks like the handles on those are more comfortable than some of the new handles I have seen.

Did you see the movie 'Grand Budapest Hotel' with the small tools in the pastries?

jtk

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks, Jim. I did see that movie just this weekend. Funny - cute scenes. Would have been nice to land the contract for building those little prop tools. The credits listed 8 or 9 people as miniature tool makers. The handles on my miniatures are stylized some to suit the heads. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DansHammertwobuffedB_zps63a6530a.jpg


And the third one is radically stylized:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DansHammertwocustomc_zps23345a54.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DansHammercustomc_zpsf36726d3.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

New project:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbaro002_zps182b2613.jpg


Based on an old idea.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbaro2002_zps6f3e8ef4.jpg


Walnut stock cut and formed:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbarro3007_zps6f86bce9.jpg

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbarro3001_zps0ce7485c.jpg


And put together employing fine joinery, glue and dowels. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbaro001_zps1d8319f1.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Progress. This build may have turned out to be more complicated than at first it may have seemed
due to the many angles built into it and the need for perfect symmetry and, of course, the small scale. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbaro006_zpsfdc451f8.jpg


A comparative scale:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbarro4004_zpsec406d45.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Metal bracing installed. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbarrow7015_zps191b7e1f.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbarrow7016_zpse24136ef.jpg

[Jim Koepke]

Looks a lot better than a medium size wheel barrow I built and sold.

jtk

[Ralph Juarros]

It's slowly taking shape. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbarrow5002_zpsa409cdda.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbarrow5005_zps1e4672eb.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbarrow6001_zpse6808946.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbarrow7022_zps29c106cf.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

The miniature wooden wheelbarrow is finished. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbarrow8006_zpsdf44a2d2.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbarrow8005_zps81ca6a46.jpg


Comparative scale:

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbarrow9005_zps00576791.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheelbarrow9004_zpsed2482a5.jpg



See the action video on Youtube: http://youtu.be/v8zn_SdTnFk

[Daniel Rode]

I never get tired of seeing these. The wheelbarrow is fantastic!

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks, Dan. The miniature wheelbarrow was fun to build, though challenging.
I've started a new project - light on wood and heavy in Brass, but I think that it may be of interest to some.

The first challenge is to build a set of wheels to resemble old time implement wheels.



http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels1002_zps0fc8e176.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels1008_zps0ffef6c6.jpg


The hubs were turned and drilled with equal spacing to accommodate 1/16 inch spokes.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels1021_zps6fd54733.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels1004_zpsad8bd589.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels1008_zps0ffef6c6.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Two wheels built to resemble antique equipment.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels1023_zps0cca32e6.jpg


Then two more and we have enough to build a four wheeled creature.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels2017_zpsf33c3d4b.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Main frame fabricated -- "T" beams measured, cut and silver soldered for strength and rigidity: Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels4Grader001_zps77e5fc75.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels4Grader007_zpsf5012874.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

Progress every day. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels4Grader018_zpse3fc2bbe.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/FrontWheels4Grader006_zpsa5b7393c.jpg

[Ralph Juarros]

The miniature horse drawn road grader is finished.


The blade detail:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelGradeBladeFrame004_zps41941ef4.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelGradeBladeFrame006_zpsc62a3cc2.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelGradeBladeFrame007_zpsd62f3ae6.jpg


The Evener and Double Tree:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelGradeDoubleTree004_zps2414f989.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelGradeDoubleTree003_zps6a4aa140.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelGraderDoubleTree006_zps5b65f6c9.jpg


All the parts came together:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelsGraderfin003_zps35818322.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelsGraderfin004_zpsb2b58d16.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelsGraderfin005_zps17abf483.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelsGraderfin003_zps35818322.jpg


See the action video on YouTube: http://youtu.be/xiIoYGwTtaI?list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A

[Ralph Juarros]

After some diversions, I'm back to building miniature tools and thought that some might find this interesting.
This is a sterling silver plane with Ebony tote and knob, brass turn knob and a sharp steel blade.
It was a challenging build in that polished silver reveals highlights as well as every little imperfection.
The Ebony parts carved like brittle stone but polished up like glass. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SilverampEbonyPlaneNov-14010_zpsf515d174.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SilverampEbonyPlane2Nov-14002_zps997ebdb7.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SilverampEbonyPlane2Nov-14005_zpsc115c250.jpg

[Jim Ritter]

Very nice Ralph. Was the body cast or made up from plate? Glad to see you are still at it.
Jim

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks, Jim. Perfect question -- I have used both procedures in the past.
Some models were cast in the "lost wax process".


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess104001_zps89c9e9fc.jpg



http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess114005_zpsa4f76fbe.jpg


And some were assembled from pieces cut from flat stock as with this earlier model:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturescraper012_zps2c47a42c.jpg


And poised together then silver soldered:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturescraper020_zpsd0b84a23.jpg


This latest model was cut from silver flat stock and silver soldered.
I must declare that the casting process is much more complex requiring more operations but is often used when a piece is of complex shape
or when flat stock is not available or just can't be formed properly.

[DOUG ANGEL]

Ralph, I looked at your video on you tube. WOW you are certainly talented! Beautiful work, The sound that the miniature plane made on the edge of that plank was music!

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks, Doug. I've been at this a while, and I know what you mean about the music that a good plane makes.
Appearance is important, but, ultimately, I judge my planes by the music they make. Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

I have posted some smatterings of miniature tools in my collection - some with limited exposure.
This post features my miniature rendition of the Knowles Patent Block Plane of 1827, thought to be the earliest American patent for a metallic plane.
Other plane makers manufactured this type of plane, either with or without license, and similar planes are known of various sizes and with minor design changes. Ralph



A stylized model was fabricated of flat stock silver with Ebony wood accents




http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Knowlesplanes003_zpsc20f6abf.jpg



This was a lost wax cast piece with Walnut accents and a sharp steel blade.


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Knowlesplanes2006_zps360e48fb.jpg



http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Knowlesplanes001_zps7682848e.jpg



http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Knowlesplanes2006_zps360e48fb.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Knowlesplanes013_zpsded65fbb.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Knowlesplanes2009_zpsa68a611f.jpg

[Chuck Hart]

Ralph you haven't posted any new ones lately. What do you have going now?

Chuxk

[Ralph Juarros]

Ralph you haven't posted any new ones lately. What do you have going now?

Chuxk


Hi, Chuck. I have had some recent posts including a new silver plane on Nov. 11.
But this string has become quite complicated to follow. You might try to tap in at a lower spot. Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

When someone asked for details on how the solenoid powered lathe worked I realized that I had not documented the miniature lathe well. I went back and did a sketch and took some pictures that will detail the function of this machine.
This project was challenging, interesting and unique in that it employs no electric motor with a rotating armature to turn the head stock. A linear stroke motion is created by the solenoid operating very like a steam engine, but by way of an electro magnetic field instead of steam employing electric switching in place of mechanical valves, and it drives a fulcrum mechanism which further drives a reciprocating motion from the moment arm by a thin steel wire that connects through the base to the treadle plate. The rocking treadle then converts the reciprocating action into circular motion through a connecting rod hooked to the crankshaft to turn the flywheel driving the head stock by a belt and stepped pulleys system allowing for rotational speed changes in the conventional way.

I know that that was a mouth full. It is a complex mechanism. Some pictures might make it more clear than words could. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Lathefinished008.jpg





http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/LatheDrawing002_zps156b78b3.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/LatheDrawing2004_zps76ce68a9.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/LatheDrawing2006_zps1505ce42.jpg


See Action video:


http://youtu.be/58aRhhq2JzE?list=UU-GXI1Wp8qMJcEsSWF5Eu5A

[Ralph Juarros]

My first post on this forum featured a pair of miniature hand planes which were fabricated from brass sheet stock with the parts silver soldered together:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/2miniplanes5013_zps70ebafde.jpg


Later I featured a pair of miniature #4 hand planes what were cast in one piece (one silver and one gold):


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess114016_zpscc2b94cc.jpg


Most of my stuff employed one procedure or the other. Recently I created a pair of miniature hand planes employing a combination of both procedures.
The sides were cast (lost wax) in high relief, and the sole and other parts were fabricated from flat stock. Then all the parts were silver soldered together to form the planes.

Wax patterns were created complimentary to each othe. Then a plaster mold was built, and the parts were cast in silver:


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/LionPlane006_zpse4b31456.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/LionPlane001_zps8ccdc3bf.jpg



One has the tote and knob carved of Cocobolo, and the other was accented with African Black Wood.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/LionPlane011_zpsf612a9c1.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/LionPlane013_zps17f64913.jpg


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/LionPlane2003_zpsfe917073.jpg

[Jeff Wittrock]

Really amazing tools Ralph.
I have watched quite a few of your videos on youtube showing your solenoid engines. Very enjoyable to watch.

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks, Jeff. I have also posted a series of "miniature tools by Art Rafael" on Youtube. Ralph

[Will Boulware]

Simply amazing. Fine work, sir!

[Ralph Juarros]

Thanks, Will. I appreciate your thoughts. Ralph

[Ralph Juarros]

I like hand planes. They're fascinating tools.

I decided to build a miniature 1/4 scale #4 sterling silver smoothing plane.
I had forgotten just how much of a challenge it was to build a genuine frog with so many operations and tight tolerances at this scale -
not to mention all the other components.

But cabin fever got the best of me, and I just jumped in.

Below is my rendition of a miniature 1/4 scale # 4 silver plane. Ralph


http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/NewSilver4001_zps809afb5c.jpg


See the construction video on youtube:

http://youtu.be/h_s5GmGlOcQ

[Kyle Foster]

I must say, your work is amazing.