I need the BF's help!

[ADPass]

Hello everyone at Bamboo Forums,

Im currently a student at the Savannah College of Art and Design. I am working a huge project for one of my classes and one part of the project required me to make a 3d model of a design I made. Well my design calls for a bamboo pole to be bent like a scythe. Normally I would have a field day learning this new art and having fun with it, but I just don't have the time. The deadline is in less than 4 weeks. So I am reaching out to you fine and skilled people. I've found a couple of lumber places online that could sell me a pole and such but I lack the skills to bend it.

If anyone is interested or maybe sympathetic to a poor art student, then please email me asap. I would take care of any expenses like shipping and the bamboo itself, and for services rendered if the bender is so inclined. This would not be a large job, just 2 slight bends at the max. I have detailed pictures to show what I am looking for, those of you who are interested.

Well thanks guys, and I hope to be working with one of you fine craftsmen/women soon!

Alex Passapera

[Mark Meckes]

Hi Alex,
Post the drawings as an attachment in your reply, with specifications, including diameter of bamboo, so we can see what type of bend you are after.

Cheers,
Mark

[ADPass]

ok here are some sketches of what Im looking for, nothing too big I hope. I attatched the original concept drawing there also to show you what Im going for. The pole is probably going to be 5ft tall if i can find that, I need it to be a half pole and bent with the half side on its side so that it goes with the curves. Well ill let the pics do the explaining, let me know if you would need more info.

[Mark Meckes]

I'd like to try doing this bend but I won't have suitable 4" diameter bamboo till March ...
( so if anyone can help, email Alex)

Some thoughts ...
- mature green or partially dried bamboo is more bendable
- doing the bends in the middle of a longer piece, the ends can provide bending leverage.

This will prevent the culm from collapsing.
- Prior to bending, punch out the node diaphragms, using a steel pipe or rebar leaving one end intact. Fill it up with sand and plug the end.

... after making the bend, I'd probably then cut it in half lengthwise using a jig-saw.

There's a bamboo meeting coming up in Savannah Georgia in a few days ...

Saturday Feb 18, 20006 - Southeast Chapter Meeting: Bamboo Farm & Coastal Garden, Savannah GA (http://www.bamboocraft.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1745)

... This would be a great opportunity for you to to meet others interested in bamboo and tour the bamboo gardens.
If you ask around you may find a source of bamboo and assistance.

Meanwhile ... when I get some materials and time to try this out I'll take pics.

Mark

[ADPass]

that sounds great, and Ill probably try and make that meeting in savannah. As far as not having the materials, I'd be more than happy to purchase whatever bamboo you would use online and send them to you. The color wont really matter since im planning on throwing a couple coats of paint on there anyway. All i need is someone with the skills do make the bends... and the tools.

Thanks for all the great info, i really appreciate it.