Over the last few years, Kyle has created a series of cattail sculptures. This is one he was commissioned to create for the client’s front porch. Take a peek at the design and creation process below!

{Click any image to enlarge.}

Creating a to-scale drawing of the sculpture is the very first step in the design process. Next we re-create the drawing in full size on the steel layout table (the blacksmith's equivalent of a workbench.)

Next up: making the cattail flowers. In the first photo, we're using a fullering tool on the anvil to shape tube steel. The last photo shows the needle gun we use to create the texture on the cattail.

We used angle iron to create the leaves. Here we're cutting the ends into points, then shaping the leaves hot using a tool known as a bending dog in the the vise.

To make the base, we cut the shape out of steel plate. We added texture later on with the hammer.

And now to assemble all the parts!

This piece was finished with a rust patina, a finish that works well with the subject matter and holds up great for exterior work. Here the piece is installed on the happy owner's front porch!