An update! Well, that must mean its the middle of December and I’ve finally wrapped my final exams. Damn…it feels good to say that. This was a busy winter.
So, blah blah blah, here’s a Steampunk bass. Check it!
I’ll post a demonstration video shortly. This was the first of a series of instruments I am working on.
Here is a short video detailing the movement of a piece I made over the summer.
Every couple of months I will be reviewing a Steampunk-themed book and posting the reviews on my website. I will primarily be looking at DIY and project/crafting based steampunk books as opposed to novels, short story collections, etc. Anyways, up first, Thomas Willeford’s (aka Lord Archibald “Feathers” Featherstone) “Steampunk: Gear, Gadgets and Gizmos…A Maker’s Guide”
Thomas Willeford’s Gear Gadgets and Gizmos is meant as an introduction to the world of steampunk ‘crafting’. The book features a collection of eight, detailed do-it-yourself projects that require varying degrees of skill and materials. The book is indeed thorough in its approach, but doesn’t necessarily keeps things too stuffy. Littered with jokes and humorous anecdotes, Willeford’s guide keeps it light despite its technical subject matter.
Click to View on Amazon
The book opens with a prologue that serves as an introduction to Steampunk (and what is NOT steampunk). The first real technical chapter of the book is Chapter 2, “Tools of the Modern Mad Scientist”. I thought it quite sensible to provide a quick rundown (and list) of recommended tools for the beginner/intermediate crafter and I’m sure that this will be an invaluable resource to many who are just breaking in to Steampunk. Towards the end of Chapter 2, Willeford also addresses finding parts for projects and this continues into Chapter 3. Again, this is a valuable resource to anyone who is essentially approaching steampunk from a ‘clean slate’. Knowing what tools you need to start, and where you can find (inexpensive) parts to use is definitely key.
The projects themselves range from the small and simple (steampunk goggles) to the significantly larger (and moderately more technical) Steampunk piston arm. I have read in other reviews of this book that some people were slightly intimidated by the amount of equipment/processes required to build some of these projects but let me assure you, as a visual artist myself, that you cannot expect to build elaborate and fancy things without having to use some machinery. Its just the name of the game. Willeford does well to provide a variety of projects, and comparatively the required equipment is minimal. Each project is laid out in clear steps with each progression typically accompanied by a photo or visual reference.
The projects shared in the book predominantly emphasize the use and incorporation of ‘found’ pieces. Items scavenged from thrift stores, antique dealers, flea markets, and the like. Willeford wisely showcases variations of projects incorporating ‘similar’ parts (in case something cannot be find) and this is also addressed in the text. This is an important lesson, particularly in a crafting book that emphasizes the use of recycling/reclaiming; Not everything is carved in stone. You can substitute, change, alter, do whatever you like so long as it makes you happy in the end. In my opinion this is an excellent tone for any crafting book and an excellent tone for those who are just getting their ‘feet wet’ with Steampunk as an aesthetic style. Beginners will definitely find much they can learn from the book, and it is definitely written with them in mind.
There is something here for everyone, and as an introduction to the world of Steampunk crafting, its actually pretty good. Advanced users may not find as much utility from the book, but this is not a book written for the advanced user. Simple starter projects to help you on your way and establish confidence. Nothing wrong with that! I’ve read through Gear Gadgets And Gizmos a few times now and if you don’t have much in the way of experience but are interested in creating your own gear (and learning some basic techniques along the way) I absolutely recommend it. Its a good place to start.
Just a quick update on what I’ve been up to and a couple pictures I wanted to post of recent commissions! Aaaaaaaand, I’m having a baby! Well, my wife is, I’m not, but there is going to be a baby around in the next couple months so I will be taking a short break (break date is birth time dependent). I’ll put up a post with the good news likely sometime in January.
Anyways, back to business. Now that I’ve got the shop set up again I’m taking steps to get moving on some new gear. I’m finishing up some concept work for upcoming projects, some of which I am hoping to get in to the production phase by the end of the year. These will mostly be smaller fare as I’m working on a few ‘signature’ models (that I can keep the Etsy store stocked with. I’m hoping to announce release dates and the price point shortly. Also, I will not be available for commission work until January. My schedule is full until the New Year but please contact me if you are interested in a piece and we can work out a timeline.
Custom Case. Maple, pine, brass.
Its that time! With the Victoria Steam Expo II (@VicSteamExpo on Twitter) right around the corner I’m putting the finishing touches on all my gear and packing up for a drive to the city. Its been a ridiculously busy couple of months. Juggling show preparations, commissions, school and a house move.
Click the poster to go to the Expo site!
If you don’t know what Victoria Steam Expo II is you should really head over to their website, poke around, give them your money, and then come to the event where you can throw more dollars (or just some positive vibes!) at the many talented artists, authors, and musicians in attendance. It is definitely going to be an excellent time and I’m really looking forward to it. Come and find me at the top of Craigdarroch Castle and say hi, I will be in attendance for the duration.
Everything that I’m bringing to the show (with the exception of one piece) has been made especially for the show itself. Its all new, never before seen stuff including two new pairs of wings, a new amplifier, and some other interesting goodies. If you want to see the new gear you gotta come out! GIT YO TICKET.
Been MIA for the last month but I’m finally catching up and getting around to posting some pics. Sorry for the quality but I haven’t unpacked my camera yet (it’s in there somewhere) so its just dirty old iPhone 3g pics. Anyways, brass tacks, here are some sneak peek photos of what I’m working on for the upcoming Victoria Steam Expo II (Sept. 24th & 25th, Craigdarroch Castle VICTORIA BC).
Steampunk Cathedral Guitar Amp
Steampunk Bass Guitar
Pipe Organ Playing Automaton
Steampunk Icarus Wings MK4 (Size Large; A small will also be coming)
BUSY! Been working on a ton of stuff trying to get ready for the upcoming VicSteamExpo. Anyways, here is a quick run down of what I’m doing, what is coming up, and a few new policies and bits of news.
1. Victoria Steam Expo 2: An upcoming show that I am beyond flattered to be the featured artist for. I’ve been working like mad, and if you follow my twitter feed (@steampunk22) or follow me on Facebook (search Thin Gypsy Thief) you’ve seen the pics. At the show I will have a new amplifier, a new bass guitar, a new automaton, and several other pieces.
2. Vacation: I am taking 9 days off for some much needed R&R. During this time I will only be reachable by phone and text, I will likely be setting my email to autoreply.
3. Shop Relocation: I’m moving! Yessir. At the beginning of September I will be moving. This will also allow me to have a better shop arrangement and I will be able to work on bigger and better projects!
4. Commission Policies: Since I have been working on larger, and more expensive projects, I am now going to start requiring DEPOSITS on all works that are non-inventory purchases. If its a commission, I need 50% up front to cover materials cost etc.
Thanks everyone!
