The original commemorative plate from cobaco for baby, delivered as a set with the baby ring. We have commissioned a metal engraving artist to handcraft each piece individually.
To the site where the commemorative plates are made
To the atelier of a metal engraving artist. It is a pleasant workspace where you can see both the sea and mountains of Kobe.
「Since it is a home and studio, I am creating while being creative with tools and other items to make it easier to work in a compact space.」
Individuality Created by Handwork
First, let me briefly explain the production process. The workflow is quite simple. First, we cut the brass plate into the shape of the commemorative plate, then we engrave it, polish it, and finally, we set the stone to complete it.
First, draw a circle on the glassine paper with a pen.
"First, we will cut the brass plate into the shape of the commemorative plate. If we cut it out directly without preparation, the shape will be unstable, so we create an oval shape using glassine paper, stick it to the brass plate, and use it as a guide."
"Initially, I would draw lines directly on the brass plate with a knife and cut them out, but as I continued cutting, the lines would become faint from the areas I touched with my hands, and the light reflecting from the window made it hard to see. In the end, I had no choice but to rely on my intuition, which often led to the lines becoming uncertain."
"Is it a little more to the left? Or to the right? Once you start thinking like that, it's quite difficult to correct the course, and the finish ends up being all uneven. I've tried various methods, and now I've settled on this one."
We will finally start cutting out the brass plate using a scroll saw. The success of the cutting will greatly affect the final result, so we take our time and work carefully.
It may not have a particularly elaborate shape, but it is said that cutting it into a simple yet beautiful oval shape is surprisingly difficult.
"Basically, we cut them out to look the same shape, but due to subtle differences in the angle at which the thread's teeth hit the brass plate, they cannot be finished in exactly the same shape. Since this is done by hand, it's different from machines. While we can't create strictly identical shapes, I believe that this adds character and individuality to each plate."
While clearly meeting the standard of looking the same shape, we intentionally leave the individuality that comes from the slight variations and shifts that are a result of handcrafting. In this way, each plate is finished as something special.
Sanding, polishing, and finishing
Before starting the engraving process, there are still a few preparatory tasks to complete. First, since the sides of the plate are rough after being cut out, we will smooth them with a file.
When you compare them, the difference is obvious. The rough surfaces have been smoothed out and beautifully finished.
Next, apply polishing compound to the surface where the engraving will be done and polish it. This will result in a shiny, mirror-like finish. Finally, we will engrave the text onto the plate.
続きはvol.2へ。
