Hiding seams in metal?

[conbrio]

Hello All,

I am in need of some ideas and/or advice. But first the idea I have.

I am planning on attempting to build a small td. How small you ask? Well about 8"w x 13"l (and yes that is in inches and NOT feet). Why so small? Well I can't build a full size one since I moved into an apartment and they tend to frown on building things out in the parking lot. And I thought why not try and build one for the kiddies and the Barbies.

Now I plan on making this thing out of Al or maybe steel. But I have a question or two before I even start to buy materials. (Hate to buy the materials and get started only to find out it is not possible to finish)

Soldering - I was thinking about soldering the seams to hide them. Possible? I found a few web sites stating it was but has anyone here done it? I know it is not as sturdy as welding but I am planning on only using it to hide a few seams, and this is a small project.

Other Methods to hide seams?

If I remember what my other question was I will be sure to post it here.

Thanks All,
Conbrio

[Miriam C.]

You might check out the hobby stores. Some leading or copper foil for stained glass might look nice. Oh and check out the auto stores for glue to seal with. Again the RC hobby stores might have some stuff too.

[mikeschn]

Break the sharp edges with sand paper, and then glue it up. You probably won't hide the seams unless you build a cnc machine to cut your own edge trim.

Mike...

P.S. People build cnc machines in their apartments... in the bathroom of all places...

[Miriam C.]

http://www.delphiglass.com/stained-glas ... cessories/

You might have a look at these! Actually lead for toys might not be a good idea. But some foil stuff would look nice if you can make it stick.

[prohandyman]

Conbrio
I made a couple of bird houses out of left over aluminim from my KIT rebuild. But, I had considered using aluminum flashing from the hardware store, sold for roof repairs on homes. Comes in colors, on different size rolls, easily wide enough so that you would have no seams, except for where the top meets the sides. I used aluminum tape cut real narrow to fabricate an edge trim. This tape is also found at hardware stores for use in sealing heating ducts.

[bobhenry]

And whats wrong with a woodie



My Scottie is a purist a woodie With simulate tail and clearance lights!

[Mark McD]

LOL.
Nice.Nothing too good for our four legged friends.

[Elumia]

I would avoid placing seams and penetrations where water may have a chance to pool.

For edge trim, install in a solid piece over the top, no seams on the roof. I would bevel a slight overlap on verticals and fill with a waterproof sealer, like used for gutter flashings.

For sheet skins, again, I would seam on verticals, overlap sheets with a sealant between layers, and fastners installed at seams. Remove screws once installed and put sealant in the holes too!

Mark

[Mark McD]

You can get an air flange tool from Harbor Freight that makes easy to lap sheets. They cost about $20. I'm not suggesting you buy a new tool to make a toy for your daughter...I'm just sayin.

[len19070]

Happy Trails

Len

[Jiminsav]

And whats wrong with a woodie



My Scottie is a purist a woodie With simulate tail and clearance lights!

you know...some folks have too much time on their hands....

thats a good lookin' dog tear there bob.