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I recently had the pleasure of creating a custom yard art turkey for a special order. The process was both challenging and rewarding, and I wanted to share some insights about how it all came together.
The buyer provided a paper pattern that needed to be scanned using a large-format scanner. One of her main requests was to ensure that the pattern remained undamaged during the scanning process, which added an extra layer of care to the task. Thankfully, there’s a FedEx Store nearby that offers a self-service scanner. While it isn’t the cheapest option, the quality of the scans is excellent, which made it worth the investment. I always scan my own paper patterns, however, my scanner was much to small for this job.
Once I had the scanned pattern ready to go, I transitioned to crafting the actual turkey. I chose to work with 1x12 yellow pine for its durability. Using my Excalibur EX-21 scroll saw, I shaped the turkey with precision. While a bandsaw could have gotten the job done more quickly, I prefer the clean cuts my scroll saw provides, as it typically eliminates the need for excessive sanding.
The creativity involved in bringing a pattern to life is always a joy, and this turkey was no exception. It’s satisfying to see a beautifully crafted piece come together, especially when it’s for someone who appreciates the effort.
If you’re considering embarking on a similar project, I highly recommend taking your time with the details. The right tools and techniques can make all the difference in achieving a stunning final product.
