Lots of times people ask how I come up with the projects and mechanisms for the pieces I build. The ideas are generated anywhere, this one while driving along in the car on a recent trip. Back in the studio I imagine the required action, roughly draw the components and action, and then work on a mechanism. After a bit of scribbling a sketch like the one shown here evolves. I make myself notes so that when I get to the detailed prototype design I can remember points of concern, integration with other parts, or things to experiment with. 

This sketch is for a future yet to be named piece. 

Completed 9 sets of wing assemblies this week for what was supposed to be for 6 flying racoons and a composite piece. My advisors, (that's professional speak for all the family and friends who drop into the shop regularly to see what is happening), have told me they would like to see some other characters so my goal now is 4 raccoons, 1 pig and 1 elephant. 

Here is one of the completed wing blocks ready to drop into the back of any of the animal shapes.

Had fun a the carving shop last weekend. I met a lot of very talented and interesting people. It seems that there is a fair concentration of carvers around the Kawartha Lakes region.  I placed third in the Miscellaneous Novice category.

Seeing some excellent work I have been inspired to search out a course or instructor to improve my caricature carving to improve my pieces.

Socializing over, I have returned to the shop! I have decided to do a limited run of the Rocket Pack Raccoons to see if anyone will actually buy something of mine instead of just talking about it. I'm focusing on improving quality with more finish sanding and the purchase of an air gun for paint application. I am in the midst of making 9 Raccons,  6 as individuals with 3 more for one multiple character piece. Even with only doing a few pieces  I can see why many complain about the drudgery of production. It is much more fun to design and create new pieces!

I've decided to break out of the shop and take a piece to a local carving competition! I will attend the Kawartha Carvers Competition in Bobcaygeon, Ontario this weekend to display the "Urban Terrorists". I realize that automata will not be viewed as true carving, but it will give me a chance to rub shoulders with some of the local artisans who ply the woodworking craft. It should be fun and i am curious to see the reaction of show visitors to the automata art form.

If you are in the Kawarthas the show runs from 9:00 to 4:30 at the curling club!