How metal garden sculptures are made.
From a design on screen to a finished piece in the garden: the main stages, and why each one matters.
A metal garden sculpture looks simple, but a good one is the result of many decisions made before any metal is poured. This is a general overview of the stages involved; the details vary by product, metal and volume.
- DesignThe sculpture is drawn or modelled, often in 3D, so proportions, detail and scale can be reviewed before tooling is made.
- Pattern and mouldA master form is used to make a mould. The quality of the mould largely determines the quality of surface detail on every casting that follows.
- CastingMolten metal, such as aluminium or iron, is poured into the mould and allowed to solidify.
- Cleaning and fettlingThe casting is removed from the mould and trimmed, and rough edges and casting marks are cleaned away.
- FinishingSurface preparation, colour, patina and any protective coating are applied to reach the intended look and outdoor performance.
- Inspection and packingSurfaces, dimensions and assembly are checked, and the piece is packed to survive transport.
Finishing is where a casting becomes a garden sculpture. Aged, antique and contemporary looks can involve several stages to build depth, texture and colour, and a consistent finish across a whole production run is one of the harder things to achieve.
Ask how the mould is developed, how surface defects such as pinholes and scratches are checked, how finishes are kept consistent between batches, and how pieces are packed. The answers show how much attention a product will get.
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