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Hobby Thread - Sept 20, 2025 [Harry Winston Rex]
Welcome hobbyists! Pull up a chair and sit a spell with the Horde in this little corner of the interweb. This is the mighty, mighty, mighty officially sanctioned Ace of Spades Hobby Thread. A spin of the Ace of Spades Wheel of Hobbies (TM) landed on jewelry making and metal casting.
Even if you are tempted to say "I don't make jewelry or do metal casting or do modeling or pay attention to photography or space, so there is nothing here for me," let the thought pass. No Moron could possibly say such a thing. The world is your oyster. You might be entertained or learn something. You might enjoy seeing what others are hobbying. I have faith that you can find something in the content that resonates or contribute your own hobbying interests. Dig around in the content and soak in the comments. Be curious. Glad you're here. [Top: The Vanderbilt Sapphire, Tiffany & Co., Up for auction on November 10, 2025 along with other Vanderbilt family jewelry]The present collection comes from Gladys Moore Vanderbilt, Countess Szechenyi, who was born in 1886 in Newport, Rhode Island. She grew up in the largest private house ever built in New York City, the Vanderbilt II family mansion on Fifth Avenue, and The Breakers, in Newport, Rhode Island, that she inherited and leased to the Preservation Society of Newport County after 1948, where she held an apartment until her death in 1965. The star of the collection is "The Vanderbilt Sapphire," an exceptional sugarloaf Kashmir sapphire and diamond brooch weighing 42.68 carats, in illustrious "Royal Blue" colour. Mounted by Tiffany & Co., this extraordinary gem is accompanied by certificates from AGL, SSEF, and Gubelin. It was originally gifted by Alice Gwynne Vanderbilt to her daughter Gladys Vanderbilt, Countess Szechenyi.Auction estimate: USD $1m-$1.5m. More auction goodies at the link if you're into that sort of thing.
When my grandfather retired he took classes and became a trained jeweler. When he passed he left a lot of his jewelry equipment to us grandkids. A lot of what he left was old and unusable but a lot of the tools he left can still be used. I'm not as good as he was, but I'm learning through YouTube videos and online classes. Started out with basic rings and earrings and have learned how to sand cast. I want to learn lost wax casting eventually. When tinkering in the garage I feel a connection to my grandfather that I didn't expect. Some of the images I included of are pieces that people had me make. The pearl ring was for prom and the gold earrings are for a friends wedding anniversary. The rest are just me enjoying experimenting and working with my hands.
Just several days after authorities announced that a rare, 3,000-year-old golden bracelet had vanished from a restoration lab at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the fate of the artifact has become clear: It was stolen by a restoration worker who sold it for less than $4,000, and was then melted down and lost forever.
What we are looking at here is 1/2 of the Pattern. It's a two part casting that gets bolted together from tabs (lost to time and decay) that are in the back. This makes the Cope or bottom. Also visible in this picture is the outline of the Gating which is where the metal gets channeled into the mold. I'm going to have to do that totally from scratch and only have a limited amount of evidence of how deep they were, which is crucial to gettling the mold to fill properly.
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This is the Pattern for the Drag for the second half of the two part piece. Even less survived of what it originally looked like. I'm not even sure if these were poured through one pour cup or two. Closest to an expert I could find told me it would have to be a really hot pour as the final product is only about a 1/4" thick which cools down really quick so it was probably 2 maybe even 3. Also told he thought it close to impossible to do with standard sand techniques and it was probably a "no bake" process. Which is out of the question for me as that stuff is toxic to everything. I'm going to try plaster as a substitute.
What makes this image so special is that McCarthy captured the Sun in hydrogen-alpha light, revealing amazing details in the star's chromosphere that cannot be seen in normal white light. The rocket and fiery plume create shockwaves, scattering the light. "I captured them with two types of cameras, a relatively normal Canon R5 with a solar filter on a telephoto lens, and then a specially designed solar telescope with an astronomy camera. The image I got with the solar telescope is, as far as I know, the only photo of its kind in existence - a photo of a rocket with the sun in hydrogen-alpha light behind it." PetaPixel searched for similar photos to McCarthy's but cannot find any. While other astrophotographers have captured silhouetted airplanes with the sun in H-alpha, McCarthy is apparently the first to capture a rocket.Zoom in and appreciate the details:
Words of wisdom:
"Because despite all our troubles, when things are grim out in that wide round world of ours, that's when it's really important to have a good hobby." Posted by: tankascribe at June 22, 2024 07:41 PM (HWxAD).
If you have trouble finding something in the content or comments that resonates with you, contribute something from your personal hobbying. We will feature a different theme next time. What are you hobbying? We love showing off Horde hobbying. Send thoughts, suggestions and photos of your hobbying to moronhobbies at protonmail dot com. Do mighty things.
Comments
(Jump to bottom of comments)1
Welcome Hobbiests
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 05:30 PM (+qU29)
2
Casting seems interesting. I wonder if people do large items like horses in two parts? The head and torso, then the John Kerry end?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 20, 2025 05:33 PM (uQesX)
3
Well do have some metal casting in my repertoire
First started bullets and led ingots
But my shakos had to make the metal medallions on my shakos
1812 Russian Artillery officer
https://tinyurl.com/353tc5h2
1813 Prussian Fusilier officer
https://tinyurl.com/3kmxv764
The shako ornaments were cast using plumbing solder, carve in a plaster Paris block, pore metal in holes prepared then clean the flash off
First started bullets and led ingots
But my shakos had to make the metal medallions on my shakos
1812 Russian Artillery officer
https://tinyurl.com/353tc5h2
1813 Prussian Fusilier officer
https://tinyurl.com/3kmxv764
The shako ornaments were cast using plumbing solder, carve in a plaster Paris block, pore metal in holes prepared then clean the flash off
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 05:38 PM (+qU29)
4
I would love to do more bigger casting. There is a sand lots of YouTube video use to make brass or bronze
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 05:40 PM (+qU29)
5
I dig the South Carolina piece, Sterling.
Posted by: Eromero at September 20, 2025 05:41 PM (LHPAg)
6
Well, I know someone (me) that would just love to find that piece of jewelry at the top, in her Christmas stocking this year...makes perfect sense since I have been extra good this year....just sayin....
Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at September 20, 2025 05:41 PM (PDUpY)
7
That is an increasable shot of Sol and the Falcon.
Sooo... many variables. Where he needed to be was determined by the exact moment of liftoff and there was only one spot.
I think he probably got some "help" .
I hope Elon hangs one in his office.
This photo is Epic.
Sooo... many variables. Where he needed to be was determined by the exact moment of liftoff and there was only one spot.
I think he probably got some "help" .
I hope Elon hangs one in his office.
This photo is Epic.
Posted by: pawn at September 20, 2025 05:56 PM (PmITa)
8
I never thought of jewelry as a hobby, but as a passion! I've read about, taken classes, attended auctions, collected--you name it. There are so many fabulous aspects of it.
One that Weasel might be interested in: through World War II, the first men drafted (and killed if captured) were jewelers. Why? Because they had the skills and equipment to design and make arms.
It went the other way, too. Paul Revere was a silversmith. I believe Louis Tiffany started out as a gun smith. A couple of the big French names also started out as gun smiths.
If you want more stories, just let me know.
One that Weasel might be interested in: through World War II, the first men drafted (and killed if captured) were jewelers. Why? Because they had the skills and equipment to design and make arms.
It went the other way, too. Paul Revere was a silversmith. I believe Louis Tiffany started out as a gun smith. A couple of the big French names also started out as gun smiths.
If you want more stories, just let me know.
Posted by: Wenda at September 20, 2025 05:57 PM (pYPZj)
9
I haven't done any lost wax casting in 20 years; but somewhere around here we have a scorpion cast in sterling silver. I was laying on the carpet in our first az home and the scorpion wandered by me just before I went to the weekly casting club meeting. No one else in the club had tried to cast an insect so they were quite surprised when the cast came out perfectly.
Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at September 20, 2025 05:58 PM (gUNDV)
10
A priceless Egyptian piece thousands of years old sold for peanuts.
Do they still chop off hands for theft?
Do they still chop off hands for theft?
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 06:00 PM (+qU29)
11
I’ve been a gem cutter for 45 years, and helped put myself through med school with my hobby.
Still do it for fun, mostly for my daughters and daughters-in-law. They think it’s an excellent hobby.!
Still do it for fun, mostly for my daughters and daughters-in-law. They think it’s an excellent hobby.!
Posted by: EyeSurgeon at September 20, 2025 06:00 PM (bS5kQ)
12
I do some very simple jewelry. Mostly stringing beads on wire. I did a pair of bead figures that look like tiny dolls as earrings for the girl spawn. Right now, I'm working on a... medallion? I guess it could be called that. Its an old plastic button as the base. Then air dry clay built on one side where I put a tiny cross. I've kept it very simple and primitive. I will paint the clay part then use silver leaf to cover, and buff it with black wax for an old look.
Then I can figure out how to make it a bracelet or pendant.
Then I can figure out how to make it a bracelet or pendant.
Posted by: Madamemayhem (uppity wench) at September 20, 2025 06:00 PM (2J/Lj)
13
The first proven UFO is sighted and a welcome committee is on hand to greet them. When the hatch opens, T-Rex runs away yelling 'It's giant ants!'
Posted by: Eromero at September 20, 2025 06:01 PM (LHPAg)
14
>> This photo is Epic.
Short video of that event on his post here:
https://tinyurl.com/2ymcsndk
He gives credit to some guy who helped him get set up.
He's getting damned good, and his work shows what is possible now, for an amateur in their own backyard to do with modern equipment.
Short video of that event on his post here:
https://tinyurl.com/2ymcsndk
He gives credit to some guy who helped him get set up.
He's getting damned good, and his work shows what is possible now, for an amateur in their own backyard to do with modern equipment.
Posted by: publius, Rascally Mr. Miley (w6EFb) at September 20, 2025 06:01 PM (w6EFb)
15
I'm not tempted to try fabricating things from metal but watching the process of turning an ordinary item, like a silver coin or hardware piece, into beautiful jewelry is interesting. Some of the delicate hammering and filing is beyond belief. True artistry.
Posted by: JTB at September 20, 2025 06:04 PM (yTvNw)
16
There are a lot of YouTube videos of people pouring liquid aluminum into ant colonies.
I could be wrong but it seems it is most popular to cast into *fire* ant mounds.
I could be wrong but it seems it is most popular to cast into *fire* ant mounds.
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at September 20, 2025 06:04 PM (ULPxl)
17
14 He gives credit to some guy who helped him get set up.
Posted by: publius, Rascally Mr. Miley (w6EFb) at September 20, 2025 06:01 PM
***
The guy who helped is John Kraus who is acknowledged as one of the best photographers of modern rocket launches. Check out his X account - johnkrausphotos
Posted by: publius, Rascally Mr. Miley (w6EFb) at September 20, 2025 06:01 PM
***
The guy who helped is John Kraus who is acknowledged as one of the best photographers of modern rocket launches. Check out his X account - johnkrausphotos
Posted by: TRex - megapixel dino at September 20, 2025 06:06 PM (PDUpY)
18
I have quite a bit of scrap brass here, would have to get something hotter than wood fire to melt it.
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 06:07 PM (+qU29)
19
I have seen so many fire ant casts I wish I had fire ants
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 06:09 PM (+qU29)
20
Tonight is looking to be a realitively clear night in my littles quare of the Space Coast. Sept is notorious for clouds here.
So I am prepping for my first night of observation with my "Big Ten Inch" telescope that I finally managed to get set outside.
I still need to do a polar alignment and then sync the focus up between the main and guide camera. Finally make sure the software can properly track targets.
After that I might get some actual photons captured and put to work.
Going to try and get some shut eye here soon.
So I am prepping for my first night of observation with my "Big Ten Inch" telescope that I finally managed to get set outside.
I still need to do a polar alignment and then sync the focus up between the main and guide camera. Finally make sure the software can properly track targets.
After that I might get some actual photons captured and put to work.
Going to try and get some shut eye here soon.
Posted by: pawn at September 20, 2025 06:10 PM (PmITa)
21
18 I have quite a bit of scrap brass here, would have to get something hotter than wood fire to melt it.
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 06:07 PM
***
In doing the research for this thread, I was surprised to see the number of small scale furnaces available for sale. I think more people tinker with casting than I appreciated. There is also a big overlap with the 3D printing community that use the printer to make the shape to be cast.
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 06:07 PM
***
In doing the research for this thread, I was surprised to see the number of small scale furnaces available for sale. I think more people tinker with casting than I appreciated. There is also a big overlap with the 3D printing community that use the printer to make the shape to be cast.
Posted by: TRex - prehistoric artist at September 20, 2025 06:10 PM (PDUpY)
22
Home forges aren't hard to fabricate.
Sadly, the only time I would need one is when there is no internet, and all the libraries have gone digital.
My current hobby is cutting and killing honeysuckle. Hardly fine art.
Sadly, the only time I would need one is when there is no internet, and all the libraries have gone digital.
My current hobby is cutting and killing honeysuckle. Hardly fine art.
Posted by: MkY at September 20, 2025 06:11 PM (cPGH3)
23
...libraries HAD gone digital...
Posted by: MkY at September 20, 2025 06:12 PM (cPGH3)
24
Here's another good one from McCarthy:
https://tinyurl.com/24ur47vg
This is a deep sky photo, a "stacked" image of *200 hours* total exposure time. Doing something like that takes a long time, and requires meticulous set up and alignment, night after night.
That is what the night sky would look like if you could see all the extraordinarily faint stuff. And it's in true color as well.
Here's another good one from McCarthy:
https://tinyurl.com/24ur47vg
This is a deep sky photo, a "stacked" image of *200 hours* total exposure time. Doing something like that takes a long time, and requires meticulous set up and alignment, night after night.
That is what the night sky would look like if you could see all the extraordinarily faint stuff. And it's in true color as well.
Posted by: publius, Rascally Mr. Miley (w6EFb) at September 20, 2025 06:12 PM (w6EFb)
25
As regards my hobby of pipe collecting and smoking, I've discovered there is a real cigar/pipe shop, not a head shop or vape dealer, in the town where I'm going this week. They say on their website that they have "estate" (aka, "used but cleaned and refurbished") pipes and "the largest selection of pipe tobaccos in the Tri-State area." So I have hopes that I might find a pipe I like and that I don't already have one resembling it.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 20, 2025 06:13 PM (omVj0)
26
Happy hunting Wolfus
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 06:17 PM (+qU29)
27
I have a propane forge that I use to turn horseshoes but it works great for melting copper. I did a mesquite table and inlaid copper in the natural flaws in the wood.
Posted by: Ben Had at September 20, 2025 06:18 PM (XZpHh)
28
An interesting example of basic metal casting is shown in a documentary "Gunsmith of Williamsburg". It was made in the 1960s and is narrated by David Brinkley. Wallace Gussler, using tools and techniques from the 18th century, starts with a chunk of wood, a flat piece of iron, and some scrap brass to make a finished flintlock rifle. He melts the brass and uses a sand mold to make parts. The pieces come out looking like vaguely desired shapes with leprosy. He refines and polishes them into graceful shapes that fit the gun: trigger guard, side plate, butt plate and decorations. Amazing.
I've seen the rifle on display. It is a true, functioning work of art made with basic hand tools.
I've seen the rifle on display. It is a true, functioning work of art made with basic hand tools.
Posted by: JTB at September 20, 2025 06:18 PM (yTvNw)
29
Skip, don't EVER wish for fire ants!
Posted by: DanMa'am at September 20, 2025 06:18 PM (8uzBS)
30
I brought my Frozen Horror and Crypt dragon to work next to my other figures, and two guys asked how I painted them.
These aren't them, but this is what the figures look like:
https://tinyurl.com/3fmeec4y
https://tinyurl.com/33cyyw56
In fact mine are better than those.
These aren't them, but this is what the figures look like:
https://tinyurl.com/3fmeec4y
https://tinyurl.com/33cyyw56
In fact mine are better than those.
Posted by: BourbonChicken at September 20, 2025 06:20 PM (lhenN)
31
Now that is freaking amazing!
Looks kind of like a lidar photo.
Looks kind of like a lidar photo.
Posted by: Elrond Hubbard at September 20, 2025 06:20 PM (ekM0A)
32
See so many casting swords, carve your object out of wood or use a existing, put it in a special sand in a casket. Pore metal in hole.
Then as I learned making lead ingots let cool for hours before touching
Then as I learned making lead ingots let cool for hours before touching
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 06:20 PM (+qU29)
Posted by: Diogenes at September 20, 2025 06:23 PM (2WIwB)
34
Damn. I was hoping this week would be about Bonsei trees.
Damn. I was hoping this week would be about Bonsei trees.
Posted by: Soothsayer at September 20, 2025 06:23 PM (Hw5ny)
35
Figures are fantastic BourbonChicken, see lots of figures on YouTube shorts,
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 06:23 PM (+qU29)
36
McCarthy also recreated Hubble's famous "Pillars of Creation" image from his own backyard:
https://tinyurl.com/2dzpowep
With modern equipment, relatively (relatively!) cheap, this is possible for anyone now. It still takes a lot of skill and dedication -- you're not going to do something like this "out of the box", but this kind of thing no longer requires lots of money and expensive, huge telescopes and equipment.
https://tinyurl.com/2dzpowep
With modern equipment, relatively (relatively!) cheap, this is possible for anyone now. It still takes a lot of skill and dedication -- you're not going to do something like this "out of the box", but this kind of thing no longer requires lots of money and expensive, huge telescopes and equipment.
Posted by: publius, Rascally Mr. Miley (w6EFb) at September 20, 2025 06:23 PM (w6EFb)
37
Love hearing about the jewelry. Have bought loose beads, string, wire, etc., before, but seem to be all thumbs.
Newest hobby: Been actually sewing tunics and blouses for myself, since I can't find or afford tops I like. Everything seems to be dull neutrals in stretchy knit. So I 've raided my fabric stash and used my quilting cottons. They don't wrinkle like I was afraid they would. I am loving combining the colors and prints into banded tunics. I am way over 29 and refuse to live out my remaining years in dull shades!
Newest hobby: Been actually sewing tunics and blouses for myself, since I can't find or afford tops I like. Everything seems to be dull neutrals in stretchy knit. So I 've raided my fabric stash and used my quilting cottons. They don't wrinkle like I was afraid they would. I am loving combining the colors and prints into banded tunics. I am way over 29 and refuse to live out my remaining years in dull shades!
Posted by: skywch at September 20, 2025 06:24 PM (uqhmb)
38
I saw a bunch of Faberge eggs at The Hermitage in St. Petersburg a few years ago. If you like intricate jewelry, these are not to be missed. They are exquisite.
Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at September 20, 2025 06:24 PM (XIYoZ)
39
Thanks for the link publius!
Looks like he is using the same astro camera as I am.
61 million pixels stuffed into a full frame format.
Looks like he is using the same astro camera as I am.
61 million pixels stuffed into a full frame format.
Posted by: pawn at September 20, 2025 06:24 PM (PmITa)
40
I've seen the rifle on display. It is a true, functioning work of art made with basic hand tools.
Posted by: JTB at September 20, 2025 06:18 PM (yTvNw)
Thanks JTB, I haven't thought of Colonial Williamsburg in years.
Posted by: JTB at September 20, 2025 06:18 PM (yTvNw)
Thanks JTB, I haven't thought of Colonial Williamsburg in years.
Posted by: Eromero at September 20, 2025 06:24 PM (LHPAg)
41
Just got finished unloading this winter's Pinball Project:
Bally Star Trek (1980ish). Play field is a bit blown out in high traffic areas. Cabinet is a little faded/worn...but structurally looks pretty good
Back glass is perfect. And the earliest version.
Plastics and Hardware are nice and clean.
Haven't tried booting it up yet...but will get to that later tonight.
I don't think finding a NOS play field for this one is gonna be cheap...but maybe I will get lucky?
Bally Star Trek (1980ish). Play field is a bit blown out in high traffic areas. Cabinet is a little faded/worn...but structurally looks pretty good
Back glass is perfect. And the earliest version.
Plastics and Hardware are nice and clean.
Haven't tried booting it up yet...but will get to that later tonight.
I don't think finding a NOS play field for this one is gonna be cheap...but maybe I will get lucky?
Posted by: garrett at September 20, 2025 06:25 PM (aOE0c)
42
Apparently there are a few missing Faberge eggs. A little subculture has developed to debate the dispute over what happened to them
Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at September 20, 2025 06:25 PM (XIYoZ)
43
Speaking of jewelry and earrings, did anyone check out the earrings Melania wore at the formal dinner in England? Beautiful.
Posted by: Diogenes at September 20, 2025 06:25 PM (2WIwB)
44
25 ... "I've discovered there is a real cigar/pipe shop, not a head shop or vape dealer, in the town where I'm going this week. They say on their website that they have "estate" (aka, "used but cleaned and refurbished") pipes and "the largest selection of pipe tobaccos in the Tri-State area." So I have hopes that I might find a pipe I like and that I don't already have one resembling it."
Wolfus,
Good luck at that pipe shop. The chance to find a gorgeous pipe is always nice.
PS: The new version of C and D Carolina Red Flake is due to start selling this Tuesday, the 23rd. I've had some from previous years and it was excellent. This newest version includes some perique.
Wolfus,
Good luck at that pipe shop. The chance to find a gorgeous pipe is always nice.
PS: The new version of C and D Carolina Red Flake is due to start selling this Tuesday, the 23rd. I've had some from previous years and it was excellent. This newest version includes some perique.
Posted by: JTB at September 20, 2025 06:26 PM (yTvNw)
45
To be clear those were other people's painted creatures. Mine are better but I didn't have any pictures at the ready.
Posted by: BourbonChicken at September 20, 2025 06:29 PM (lhenN)
46
Mmmm. Perique.
Posted by: Homer Simpson at September 20, 2025 06:30 PM (XIYoZ)
47
One of the many things I loved about jewells was you could ask her to make something from an idea you had and she could match your vision of a piece.
Posted by: Ben Had at September 20, 2025 06:31 PM (XZpHh)
48
"-- you're not going to do something like this "out of the box", but this kind of thing no longer requires lots of money and expensive, huge telescopes and equipment."
Yeah it's not cheap. This level of equipment wasn't even available 20 years ago at any price.
If you want to tempt the Time God, here a remarkable mega gadget that can do similar things in a highly automated fashion for the more pedestrian folks.
The SeeStar: https://www.seestar.com
Warning: Requires AI to operate and may cause a serious case of what is called "Aperature Fever".
Yeah it's not cheap. This level of equipment wasn't even available 20 years ago at any price.
If you want to tempt the Time God, here a remarkable mega gadget that can do similar things in a highly automated fashion for the more pedestrian folks.
The SeeStar: https://www.seestar.com
Warning: Requires AI to operate and may cause a serious case of what is called "Aperature Fever".
Posted by: pawn at September 20, 2025 06:31 PM (PmITa)
49
If you want to see what others are doing "out there " with their amateur rigs you can check out a website,
astrobin.com.
Photos are grouped by subject.
Here a link for photos grouped by Constellation:
https://app.astrobin.com/explore/constellations
astrobin.com.
Photos are grouped by subject.
Here a link for photos grouped by Constellation:
https://app.astrobin.com/explore/constellations
Posted by: pawn at September 20, 2025 06:42 PM (PmITa)
50
Hey, thanks for showcasing my work! I don’t have a website to sell pieces at the moment. Most are either custom made for people, like the gold earrings, or just things I want to try..The pearl ring was custom for a someone as an accessory for prom. Anyway, usually a lurker, just wanted to say hello.
Posted by: Sterling at September 20, 2025 06:43 PM (VMA+y)
51
Even though it's not decorative in any way, I just realized that casting bullets is metal casting. (Guess I'm slow today.) Straight lead for black powder projectiles and old style wheel weights for modern ammo requiring harder bullets. While not moon landing level science, getting the metal and mold to the proper temperatures, pouring the molten metal at the correct pace, and knowing how long to hold it in the mold all contribute to a bullet that is effective and accurate.
Posted by: JTB at September 20, 2025 06:43 PM (yTvNw)
52
If you love silver and turquoise check out Wright's in Albaquirky.
Posted by: Ben Had at September 20, 2025 06:45 PM (XZpHh)
53
TRex, thanks for the hobby thread, I haven't been able to be here as often as I used to, but I always try to catch up over the weekend. I am so envious of all of you folks with talent.
Posted by: Debby Doberman Schultz at September 20, 2025 06:46 PM (0nHVk)
54
If you think Gladys' brooch is extravagant, you should see The Breakers. More than 30 bedrooms, just for the help.
It's hard to explain how over the top the place is until you see it.
It's hard to explain how over the top the place is until you see it.
Posted by: JackStraw at September 20, 2025 06:46 PM (viF8m)
55
A fantastic shot of a lunar eclipse he got:
https://tinyurl.com/29x6tabm
That's true color, showing the prism effect of the earth's atmosphere at the "terminator" of the shadow moving across the Moon's surface.
A fantastic shot of a lunar eclipse he got:
https://tinyurl.com/29x6tabm
That's true color, showing the prism effect of the earth's atmosphere at the "terminator" of the shadow moving across the Moon's surface.
Posted by: publius, Rascally Mr. Miley (w6EFb) at September 20, 2025 06:47 PM (w6EFb)
56
I almost bought all the stuff for refining junk silver with nitric acid and recasting it into ingots last year, but changed my mind at the last minute.
Posted by: Yudhishthira's Dice at September 20, 2025 06:47 PM (BI5O2)
57
did a mesquite table and inlaid copper in the natural flaws in the wood.
Posted by: Ben Had at September 20, 2025 06:18 PM (XZpHh)
Ben Had, may I see that table when I’m in TX next month?
Posted by: Ben Had at September 20, 2025 06:18 PM (XZpHh)
Ben Had, may I see that table when I’m in TX next month?
Posted by: RI Red at September 20, 2025 06:49 PM (oLdT5)
58
56 I almost bought all the stuff for refining junk silver with nitric acid and recasting it into ingots last year, but changed my mind at the last minute.
Posted by: Yudhishthira's Dice at September 20, 2025 06:47 PM (BI5O2)
-----------
*snort*
Posted by: Yudhishthira's Dice at September 20, 2025 06:47 PM (BI5O2)
-----------
*snort*
Posted by: A Werewolf at September 20, 2025 06:50 PM (XIYoZ)
59
Looks like sperm impregnating an egg.
Posted by: Angzarr the Cromulent at September 20, 2025 06:51 PM (5PHwO)
60
When we go to antique stores, Mr. Dmlw! likes to look at toys, comic books, and record albums. I like books, kitchen wares, and I can spend a lot of time poking through the antique tools. I don't even do anything with them--I don't build stuff or do any woodworking or anything, but I love the tools.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs!, female gentleman at September 20, 2025 06:52 PM (h7ZuX)
61
garrett,
Cool, here a photo of playing field.
https://tinyurl.com/mw44uaxy
Definitely Retro.
Damn, that machine restored is like 8 grand.
Probably doesn't have any of the cool sound effects. That would have been great. Maybe you can retrofit a audio player to do things like make the door open swish when you launch the ball if you want to go totally nerd.
Cool, here a photo of playing field.
https://tinyurl.com/mw44uaxy
Definitely Retro.
Damn, that machine restored is like 8 grand.
Probably doesn't have any of the cool sound effects. That would have been great. Maybe you can retrofit a audio player to do things like make the door open swish when you launch the ball if you want to go totally nerd.
Posted by: pawn at September 20, 2025 06:52 PM (PmITa)
62
Is tomorrow morning first light the closest Saturn is to earth?
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 06:53 PM (+qU29)
63
Yes, I'm bragging. One of my dearest friends is one of the most preeminate silver engravers in the world. Sitting in his shop watching him work is like watching Michelangelo.
Posted by: Ben Had at September 20, 2025 06:53 PM (XZpHh)
64
51 Even though it's not decorative in any way, I just realized that casting bullets is metal casting. (Guess I'm slow today.) Straight lead for black powder projectiles and old style wheel weights for modern ammo requiring harder bullets. While not moon landing level science, getting the metal and mold to the proper temperatures, pouring the molten metal at the correct pace, and knowing how long to hold it in the mold all contribute to a bullet that is effective and accurate.
Posted by: JTB at September 20, 2025 06:43 PM (yTvNw)
Took me right to the scene from The Patriot with Mel Gibson casting musket balls from his murdered son's toy soldiers.
Posted by: JTB at September 20, 2025 06:43 PM (yTvNw)
Took me right to the scene from The Patriot with Mel Gibson casting musket balls from his murdered son's toy soldiers.
Posted by: Eromero at September 20, 2025 06:54 PM (LHPAg)
65
50 Hey, thanks for showcasing my work!
Anyway, usually a lurker, just wanted to say hello.
Posted by: Sterling at September 20, 2025 06:43 PM
***
Thank YOU! Thanks for sharing. Lovely stuff.
Always appreciate Horde hobbying submissions.
Anyway, usually a lurker, just wanted to say hello.
Posted by: Sterling at September 20, 2025 06:43 PM
***
Thank YOU! Thanks for sharing. Lovely stuff.
Always appreciate Horde hobbying submissions.
Posted by: TRex - the mailbox is open at September 20, 2025 06:55 PM (PDUpY)
66
RI Red, I gave it to a friend.
Posted by: Ben Had at September 20, 2025 06:55 PM (XZpHh)
67
That is nice, sure sound effects are easy to get
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 06:57 PM (+qU29)
68
>> Is tomorrow morning first light the closest Saturn is to earth?
Saturn opposition is this morning, 9/21 at 05:45 Zulu, 01:45 EDT.
It will be "about" the closest. Eccentricity makes perigee not exactly the same moment as opposition, but for Saturn, it's the same for all practical purposes.
Alignment is such that a transit of Titan occurred last night. You could see the shadow of Titan close to Saturn's north pole. Next and last one will be Oct. 3, and after that it's another 15 years before the alignment will be right again.
Saturn opposition is this morning, 9/21 at 05:45 Zulu, 01:45 EDT.
It will be "about" the closest. Eccentricity makes perigee not exactly the same moment as opposition, but for Saturn, it's the same for all practical purposes.
Alignment is such that a transit of Titan occurred last night. You could see the shadow of Titan close to Saturn's north pole. Next and last one will be Oct. 3, and after that it's another 15 years before the alignment will be right again.
Posted by: publius, Rascally Mr. Miley (w6EFb) at September 20, 2025 06:57 PM (w6EFb)
69
Ewwww... I don't know that I'd have casts made of any body parts, even after I was through with them. However, I did ask the orthodontist to hand over my braces when they came off (hey, man, my folks paid good money for 'em!), and made a necklace out of them. They strung perfectly onto some tiger-tail wire with freshwater pearls and malachite beads. I wear it every time I go to the dentist, which makes the dental hygienists laugh.
Posted by: tankascribe at September 20, 2025 06:58 PM (NtoJk)
70
Hobbiests who would like to buy a H1B slave must now pay a $100,000 tariff first.
Posted by: Boss Moss at September 20, 2025 06:59 PM (nwl4A)
Posted by: Dental Hygienists at September 20, 2025 06:59 PM (XIYoZ)
72
57 may I see that table when I’m in TX next month?
Posted by: RI Red at September 20, 2025 06:49 PM
***
In TX next month?! Did you get marital dispensation for the MoMe?!!
Posted by: RI Red at September 20, 2025 06:49 PM
***
In TX next month?! Did you get marital dispensation for the MoMe?!!
Posted by: TRex - permanent record monitor at September 20, 2025 07:00 PM (PDUpY)
73
Just checked, Saturn's perigee will be about 25 minutes before opposition. Saturn's low eccentricity and distance makes the geometry very tight, so not much difference at all.
Just checked, Saturn's perigee will be about 25 minutes before opposition. Saturn's low eccentricity and distance makes the geometry very tight, so not much difference at all.
Posted by: publius, Rascally Mr. Miley (w6EFb) at September 20, 2025 07:00 PM (w6EFb)
74
Those home made skate boards were all the rage when Jan and Dean recorded "Sidewalk Surfin'" in 1964. Mine had a Goldwater 64 bumper sticker on it.
Those home made skate boards were all the rage when Jan and Dean recorded "Sidewalk Surfin'" in 1964. Mine had a Goldwater 64 bumper sticker on it.
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at September 20, 2025 07:00 PM (63Dwl)
75
I drop my cast bullets directly into a water bucket, theory I read while investigating was it does make them harder.
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 07:01 PM (+qU29)
76
Here is a fantastic photo of the Moon that Andrew McCarthy cooperated on with another astrophotographer.
There were 85,000 frames involved.
This hobby really eats up your hard disk space. A single frame from my camera is 120 MB.
https://tinyurl.com/4syfjjb3
There were 85,000 frames involved.
This hobby really eats up your hard disk space. A single frame from my camera is 120 MB.
https://tinyurl.com/4syfjjb3
Posted by: pawn at September 20, 2025 07:03 PM (PmITa)
77
Skip, not that it matters but that makes the metal brittle. Best temper is sand soaked in motor oil.
Posted by: Ben Had at September 20, 2025 07:03 PM (XZpHh)
78
Dang. If I could buy jewelry like that, I would. Retail has failed us.
Posted by: Boss Moss at September 20, 2025 07:04 PM (nwl4A)
79
I did some soldering and lost wax casting in junior college for a couple of semesters, long enough to know it ain't as easy as it looks and that I have no talent for sculpture. I also have a huge respect for jewelers and goldsmiths (along with a love of jewelry!). The closest I've gotten to that since was having to weave a podniz, which is a pearl netting, for a medieval Russian headdress. That was a PITA involving beading needles, teeny-tiny freshwater pearls, and a lot of inventive cursing. In Russian.
Posted by: tankascribe at September 20, 2025 07:06 PM (NtoJk)
80
I got into lead & tin casting, using a dental spincaster (yes, it is an expensive hobby.) Mainly to cast the miniatures I sculpt, but the replica pieces of eight & doubloons I made are my favorites so far. I'd like to goldplate the doubloons but that's WAY out of my budget these days. (The 8 Escudo 1659 Lima Star I made almost matches the only two known to exist... ;-)
Posted by: As not seen on TV at September 20, 2025 07:06 PM (4i73l)
81
They strung perfectly onto some tiger-tail wire with freshwater pearls and malachite beads. I wear it every time I go to the dentist, which makes the dental hygienists laugh.
Posted by: tankascribe at September 20, 2025 06:58 PM (NtoJk)
This is hilarious, I'm going to tell my granddaughter about it. She's a crafter, and had braces--will have to see if she still has hers. She could make a necklace and wear it when she's an orthodontist (yes, her actual career plan).
Posted by: tankascribe at September 20, 2025 06:58 PM (NtoJk)
This is hilarious, I'm going to tell my granddaughter about it. She's a crafter, and had braces--will have to see if she still has hers. She could make a necklace and wear it when she's an orthodontist (yes, her actual career plan).
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs!, Female Gentleman at September 20, 2025 07:07 PM (h7ZuX)
82
69 Ewwww... I don't know that I'd have casts made of any body parts, even after I was through with them. However, I did ask the orthodontist to hand over my braces when they came off (hey, man, my folks paid good money for 'em!), and made a necklace out of them. They strung perfectly onto some tiger-tail wire with freshwater pearls and malachite beads. I wear it every time I go to the dentist, which makes the dental hygienists laugh.
Posted by: tankascribe at September 20, 2025 06:58 PM (NtoJk)
I had all my back teeth taken out before radiation treatments over 20 years ago. I told the oral surgeon I wanted to keep the 7 gold crowns and he asked me what I was going to do with them. I told him I'd make nipple rings. Mrs. E was upset with me. I had them set into the partial plates I have right now.
Posted by: tankascribe at September 20, 2025 06:58 PM (NtoJk)
I had all my back teeth taken out before radiation treatments over 20 years ago. I told the oral surgeon I wanted to keep the 7 gold crowns and he asked me what I was going to do with them. I told him I'd make nipple rings. Mrs. E was upset with me. I had them set into the partial plates I have right now.
Posted by: Eromero at September 20, 2025 07:07 PM (LHPAg)
83
You almost can see Apollo 14 sitting on the moon
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 07:09 PM (+qU29)
84
With the first nights of comfortable temperatures in months I'm looking at the cast iron bread and muffin pans and dutch ovens. Time to start thinking about baking, especially breads, and when the heat from the oven makes the house more comfortable, not overheated. I think of baking as a hobby with many benefits. Now to start rebuilding those dough kneading muscles.
Posted by: JTB at September 20, 2025 07:09 PM (yTvNw)
85
In TX next month?! Did you get marital dispensation for the MoMe?!!
Posted by: TRex - permanent record monitor at September 20, 2025 07:00 PM (PDUpY)
Why, yes. Yes, I did !
Posted by: TRex - permanent record monitor at September 20, 2025 07:00 PM (PDUpY)
Why, yes. Yes, I did !
Posted by: RI Red at September 20, 2025 07:12 PM (UDARB)
86
85 Why, yes. Yes, I did !
Posted by: RI Red at September 20, 2025 07:12 PM
***
Hooray! That's excellent news. The Horde will be pleased.
Posted by: RI Red at September 20, 2025 07:12 PM
***
Hooray! That's excellent news. The Horde will be pleased.
Posted by: TRex - MoMe countdown underway at September 20, 2025 07:14 PM (PDUpY)
87
75 ... "I drop my cast bullets directly into a water bucket, theory I read while investigating was it does make them harder."
It does make a difference. I do it when the bullets are intended to go over 1,000 FPS. My usual 38 special and 45 Colt and 45 acp loads are under that so I just drop the bullets onto a soft towel.
It does make a difference. I do it when the bullets are intended to go over 1,000 FPS. My usual 38 special and 45 Colt and 45 acp loads are under that so I just drop the bullets onto a soft towel.
Posted by: JTB at September 20, 2025 07:17 PM (yTvNw)
88
You CANNOT have a jewelry hobby thread without including Ron Swanson's (Parks and Rec) wedding ring tutorial. One of the best scenes in the entire show IMO.
"Any moron with a crucible, acetylene torch, and a cast iron waffle maker could have done the same."
https://tinyurl.com/5e2jr2ph
((and yes, he did use the term "moron", so he was talking directly to us))
"Any moron with a crucible, acetylene torch, and a cast iron waffle maker could have done the same."
https://tinyurl.com/5e2jr2ph
((and yes, he did use the term "moron", so he was talking directly to us))
Posted by: Orson at September 20, 2025 07:18 PM (dIske)
89
Melting metal has been my thing for a long time. I've done truck parts, shotgun shot, engine parts, wrenches, bullets, medallions and a lot of other stuff, all professionally. I also used to weld, which I can't see well enough to do it anymore. I'm made of metal. I can bend it to my will.
Foundry work is a disappearing trade in the US. Lot's of automation and robots used now. High labor and power costs are also a factor. Last place I worked doing foundry stuff had $100,000+ per month electric bills. 18 furnaces at 1300°F 24/7.
Those patterns posted above are going to be fun. Like my 38mm hand machined cannon barrel I have no idea how long it's going to take but I will get it done someday. Lots of half finished projects to thread together first. Mainly the furnace.
I'll keep y'all up on the progress.
Thanks T-rex for featuring them and the hobby thread.
Foundry work is a disappearing trade in the US. Lot's of automation and robots used now. High labor and power costs are also a factor. Last place I worked doing foundry stuff had $100,000+ per month electric bills. 18 furnaces at 1300°F 24/7.
Those patterns posted above are going to be fun. Like my 38mm hand machined cannon barrel I have no idea how long it's going to take but I will get it done someday. Lots of half finished projects to thread together first. Mainly the furnace.
I'll keep y'all up on the progress.
Thanks T-rex for featuring them and the hobby thread.
Posted by: Reforger at September 20, 2025 07:18 PM (koKZf)
90
This is hilarious, I'm going to tell my granddaughter about it. She's a crafter, and had braces--will have to see if she still has hers. She could make a necklace and wear it when she's an orthodontist (yes, her actual career plan).
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs!, Female Gentleman
I don't know if it'll work with her braces, Dash. Mine were back in the seventies, when each individual brace wrapped completely around the tooth so when they were pried off, they formed rough ovals with the channel that the arch-wire went through stuck along one side. Easy to string on jewelry wire. The newer ones are just critters they glue to the teeth and run the arch-wire through. Don't know how well those would look but she can give it a try!
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs!, Female Gentleman
I don't know if it'll work with her braces, Dash. Mine were back in the seventies, when each individual brace wrapped completely around the tooth so when they were pried off, they formed rough ovals with the channel that the arch-wire went through stuck along one side. Easy to string on jewelry wire. The newer ones are just critters they glue to the teeth and run the arch-wire through. Don't know how well those would look but she can give it a try!
Posted by: tankascribe at September 20, 2025 07:18 PM (NtoJk)
91
Publius -
Tinyurl.com keeps telling me your links for McCarthy are “deprecated”. I’ve tried them both with and without VPN.
Quote :
Why You’re Seeing This Page
The link was created using a deprecated API end point. You can find details about our supported API through the link below.
Tinyurl.com keeps telling me your links for McCarthy are “deprecated”. I’ve tried them both with and without VPN.
Quote :
Why You’re Seeing This Page
The link was created using a deprecated API end point. You can find details about our supported API through the link below.
Posted by: NemoMeImpuneLacessit at September 20, 2025 07:22 PM (uTWkf)
92
have seen so many fire ant casts I wish I had fire ants
Posted by: Skip
-----
Skip you can have my fire ants....
Posted by: Skip
-----
Skip you can have my fire ants....
Posted by: lin-duh: I'm offended! at September 20, 2025 07:23 PM (YDB6U)
93
>> Tinyurl.com keeps telling me your links for McCarthy are “deprecated”.
I just noticed that -- it's the tinyurl extension for Chrome here -- must be using the "deprecated API". Probably have to get another extension.
I just noticed that -- it's the tinyurl extension for Chrome here -- must be using the "deprecated API". Probably have to get another extension.
Posted by: publius, Rascally Mr. Miley (w6EFb) at September 20, 2025 07:23 PM (w6EFb)
94
Time to say thank you and good night before the next act takes the Ace of Spades stage. As always, thanks for being here and hobbying with the Horde.
The mailbox is open, so send your hobbying whatnot my way and we'll see if space can be found to share. Horde hobbying goes to the top of the content queue.
See y'all in Club ONT later tonight.
The mailbox is open, so send your hobbying whatnot my way and we'll see if space can be found to share. Horde hobbying goes to the top of the content queue.
See y'all in Club ONT later tonight.
Posted by: TRex - braces stories give me trauma at September 20, 2025 07:24 PM (PDUpY)
95
TRex, As always, thanks for another fun hobby thread. I swear these two hours go by in a few minutes.
Posted by: JTB at September 20, 2025 07:28 PM (yTvNw)
96
My husband liked to have jewelry made for me. I have a gold turtle brooch he had made. The shell is a piece of amber. He found a metal turtle pin to use as a model. The guy did lost wax method and made it from a Kruegeraand. I don't wear it often because I am afraid I'll lose it. Also have a black star shaphire necklace and earrings that a jeweler made. It's worth the time to find someone that can make a unique piece for you.
Posted by: Notsothoreau at September 20, 2025 07:28 PM (kUxzU)
97
HEck, I tried another extension and get the same problem. All of them must be using this "deprecated API". This must be Tinyrul changing something.
HEck, I tried another extension and get the same problem. All of them must be using this "deprecated API". This must be Tinyrul changing something.
Posted by: publius, Rascally Mr. Miley (w6EFb) at September 20, 2025 07:28 PM (w6EFb)
98
Svengoolie on MeTv tonight at 8pm ET/7pm C. Movie tonight is Tarantula.
Posted by: Joyenz at September 20, 2025 07:29 PM (2F0/Y)
99
That rocket pic is awesome!
Posted by: Tom Servo at September 20, 2025 07:29 PM (5Gg6R)
100
Is GD?
Posted by: Boss Moss at September 20, 2025 07:29 PM (nwl4A)
101
95 TRex, As always, thanks for another fun hobby thread. I swear these two hours go by in a few minutes.
Posted by: JTB at September 20, 2025 07:28 PM
***
Thank you for making it a fun place to be!
Posted by: JTB at September 20, 2025 07:28 PM
***
Thank you for making it a fun place to be!
Posted by: TRex - dilly dilly dino at September 20, 2025 07:29 PM (PDUpY)
102
Had our wedding bands made. Very understated but wanted unique.
Posted by: lin-duh: I'm offended! at September 20, 2025 07:30 PM (YDB6U)
103
There's huge red ant colony in my neighbor yard I want to dump a ton of aluminum into but it would probably start the whole hood on fire. Holes connected to holes connected to holes. They ran a bobcat over it a couple of years ago and the ants were all "Hell yeah. Thanks. We wanted that part bigger and better anyway." It's huge now.
Speaking of which I should go out and soap the holes in my yard.
Speaking of which I should go out and soap the holes in my yard.
Posted by: Reforger at September 20, 2025 07:30 PM (koKZf)
104
Thank you for this thread. I love seeing the creativity and information about every topic.
Posted by: Gouverneur Morris at September 20, 2025 07:30 PM (J8OCH)
105
I would love to do metalsmithinng and make some of the exotic jewelry I've seen. I've made some earrings and rings and bracelets,but it's just for fun.
Posted by: Megthered at September 20, 2025 07:31 PM (kueL3)
106
>>Damn, that machine restored is like 8 grand.
>>Probably doesn't have any of the cool sound effects. That would have been great. Maybe you can retrofit a audio player to do things like make the door open swish when you launch the ball if you want to go totally nerd.
Yeah it just had Bells and Chimes and fake ones at that.
I am sure I would get real money if I took the entire cabinet to bare wood and repaired and re-stenciled the paint. But then you would lose the Original and I can't yet tell if that bargain is worth it yet.
Good news is that it boots up and plays. Needs a ton of work and adjustments. Some burned up Headers in the power supply will be the first thing I do to it. And a new power cord with actual grounding. Make it safe.
If I can find a replacement playfield, I will be in good shape.
>>Probably doesn't have any of the cool sound effects. That would have been great. Maybe you can retrofit a audio player to do things like make the door open swish when you launch the ball if you want to go totally nerd.
Yeah it just had Bells and Chimes and fake ones at that.
I am sure I would get real money if I took the entire cabinet to bare wood and repaired and re-stenciled the paint. But then you would lose the Original and I can't yet tell if that bargain is worth it yet.
Good news is that it boots up and plays. Needs a ton of work and adjustments. Some burned up Headers in the power supply will be the first thing I do to it. And a new power cord with actual grounding. Make it safe.
If I can find a replacement playfield, I will be in good shape.
Posted by: garrett at September 20, 2025 07:31 PM (aOE0c)
107
I probably would have all kinds of fun dumping molten metal into fire ant holes
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 07:34 PM (+qU29)
108
I probably would have all kinds of fun dumping molten metal into fire ant holes
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 07:34 PM (+qU29)
That and yellow jacket nests.
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 07:34 PM (+qU29)
That and yellow jacket nests.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at September 20, 2025 07:35 PM (snZF9)
109
That horse head mold looks really cool. Hope they can figure it out.
Not as cool, I'm melting plastic and playing with magnets today. Good luck hobby people.
Not as cool, I'm melting plastic and playing with magnets today. Good luck hobby people.
Posted by: wodun at September 20, 2025 07:36 PM (eG1Ca)
110
So, I make UV resin jewelry (I don't do epoxy because you have a short amount of time to get everything right and you need so much PPE). I do it mainly as gifts for family, but maybe someday I'd like to sell my work.
My question is: Other than casting my own metals, is there somewhere that I can go to get a higher quality than Chinesium? Right now I use materials from Amazon and Hobby Lobby (who probably share the same manufacturer). I've had mostly good luck so far with those materials, with the occasional jump ring failing. Actually, it's always the jump rings, probably because they have to be twisted open to be used.
My question is: Other than casting my own metals, is there somewhere that I can go to get a higher quality than Chinesium? Right now I use materials from Amazon and Hobby Lobby (who probably share the same manufacturer). I've had mostly good luck so far with those materials, with the occasional jump ring failing. Actually, it's always the jump rings, probably because they have to be twisted open to be used.
Posted by: pookysgirl's relatives love opening small boxes at September 20, 2025 07:36 PM (Wt5PA)
111
Mrs B is out of state visiting family. Hobby this weekend is reckless asshole bachelor mode.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at September 20, 2025 07:36 PM (snZF9)
112
I wonder how much my useless HS class ring would get if sold. 14K gold with a big fat amethyst.
Posted by: Cow Demon at September 20, 2025 07:36 PM (bPFPB)
113
I wonder how much my useless HS class ring would get if sold. 14K gold with a big fat amethyst.
Posted by: Cow Demon at September 20, 2025 07:36 PM (bPFPB)
I can't even find mine. It vanished loooong ago.
Posted by: Cow Demon at September 20, 2025 07:36 PM (bPFPB)
I can't even find mine. It vanished loooong ago.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at September 20, 2025 07:38 PM (snZF9)
114
Class ring?? Luxury! We had to share the class ringworm!
Posted by: fd at September 20, 2025 07:39 PM (vFG9F)
115
Warhammer 40K was never my style, anyway, but I was shocked by the publisher's comments on Kirk.
https://is.gd/0co5fQ
https://is.gd/0co5fQ
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Now With Pumpkin Spice! at September 20, 2025 07:39 PM (L/fGl)
116
I can't even find mine. It vanished loooong ago.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at September 20, 2025 07:38 PM (snZF9)
I lost mine in bff's pond about a week after I got it. Oops.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at September 20, 2025 07:38 PM (snZF9)
I lost mine in bff's pond about a week after I got it. Oops.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs!, Female Gentleman at September 20, 2025 07:41 PM (h7ZuX)
117
My HS Lapidary teacher also fixed watches and that bastard still has my Omega he never returned to me.
Posted by: fd at September 20, 2025 07:41 PM (vFG9F)
118
WE HAZ A MOVIE MARQUE
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 07:42 PM (+qU29)
119
I can't even find mine. It vanished loooong ago.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at September 20, 2025 07:38 PM (snZF9)
I lost mine in bff's pond about a week after I got it. Oops.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs!, Female Gentleman at September 20, 2025 07:41 PM (h7ZuX)
Mine was gone before I moved out. My mother swore an ex girlfriend stole it. She's probably right.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at September 20, 2025 07:38 PM (snZF9)
I lost mine in bff's pond about a week after I got it. Oops.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs!, Female Gentleman at September 20, 2025 07:41 PM (h7ZuX)
Mine was gone before I moved out. My mother swore an ex girlfriend stole it. She's probably right.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at September 20, 2025 07:45 PM (snZF9)
120
Watching Rawhide. Trail boss Gil favor spanking Barbara Eden. I'd have blown that scene a couple of takes so I could keep spanking her.
Posted by: commissar of plenty and festive little hats at September 20, 2025 07:46 PM (HM8cG)
121
REALLY, THERE IS A NOOD
Posted by: Skip at September 20, 2025 07:47 PM (+qU29)
Posted by: Ronster at September 20, 2025 07:52 PM (00eCC)
123
I LOL'd, Ronster!
Posted by: JQ at September 20, 2025 07:53 PM (rdVOm)
124
JQ, you are a sweetie.
Posted by: Ronster at September 20, 2025 07:56 PM (00eCC)
125
I used to string beads & make earrings, necklaces and such. Haven't had time to, for last several years. Wish I'd photographed those many nice pieces I gave to friends.
Got dozens of clear tackle boxes, full of various supplies.
Got dozens of clear tackle boxes, full of various supplies.
Posted by: JQ at September 20, 2025 07:58 PM (rdVOm)
126
Nothing wrong with having *more than one* active thread at a time, right?
Posted by: JQ at September 20, 2025 08:00 PM (rdVOm)
127
I don't watch movies.
Posted by: Ronster at September 20, 2025 08:02 PM (00eCC)
Posted by: JQ at September 20, 2025 08:03 PM (rdVOm)
129
Gold is like $3800. I'm guessing you'd get at least a grand for it.
Posted by: Notsothoreau at September 20, 2025 08:07 PM (kUxzU)
130
The last "movie" I saw at a theater was "Team America".
Posted by: Ronster at September 20, 2025 08:09 PM (00eCC)
131
My sister makes greeting cards. Her "spare bedroom" is her crafting space, full of colored/patterned paper, stamps, inks, pens and chalks... just wow.
She's so organized and somehow keeps track of it all.
My beadboxes weep at my poor sloppy organization.
She's so organized and somehow keeps track of it all.
My beadboxes weep at my poor sloppy organization.
Posted by: JQ at September 20, 2025 08:10 PM (rdVOm)
Posted by: JQ at September 20, 2025 08:14 PM (rdVOm)
133
Damn. I was hoping this week would be about Bonsei trees.
Posted by: Soothsayer at September 20, 2025 06:23 PM (Hw5ny)
Chihuhuas are in fact bonsaied Great Danes.
Posted by: Soothsayer at September 20, 2025 06:23 PM (Hw5ny)
Chihuhuas are in fact bonsaied Great Danes.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at September 20, 2025 08:14 PM (hA1Nw)
134
I used to string beads & make earrings, necklaces and such. Haven't had time to, for last several years. Wish I'd photographed those many nice pieces I gave to friends.
********
I detest Hollywood and the "industry"....I fully understand your wish for photographs of your work....I gave away so many crocheted pieces and embroidered/cross stitch pieces, and finally about 10 years ago started taking pictures before gifting them. Never going to do anything with them, but nice to have ....
********
I detest Hollywood and the "industry"....I fully understand your wish for photographs of your work....I gave away so many crocheted pieces and embroidered/cross stitch pieces, and finally about 10 years ago started taking pictures before gifting them. Never going to do anything with them, but nice to have ....
Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at September 20, 2025 08:14 PM (PDUpY)
135
AOP is it getting close to time for you to head south?
Posted by: Ronster at September 20, 2025 08:16 PM (00eCC)
136
You'd think I would've taken photos. After all, I have a mini-album full of pics of macrame plant hangers I'd made. Large, ornate, with colorful beads and long, brushed-out poly-cord at the bottom.
Posted by: JQ at September 20, 2025 08:18 PM (rdVOm)
137
My "hobby", such as it is, will do something directly, that is feed me very well. I tie dry and wet flies.
For a time, I tied for a local sporting shop, until I became aware of the strictures imposed by New York State and their tax burden on entrepreneurs.
Now it's strictly for my enjoyment instead of making a piddling profit.
My "hobby", such as it is, will do something directly, that is feed me very well. I tie dry and wet flies.
For a time, I tied for a local sporting shop, until I became aware of the strictures imposed by New York State and their tax burden on entrepreneurs.
Now it's strictly for my enjoyment instead of making a piddling profit.
Posted by: IRONGRAMPA at September 20, 2025 08:19 PM (vFbHf)
138
Nice, IG!
I tried tying flies too-- man, what an investment for the supplies. Late BF was the fisherman & loved to try out my creations. Watched a PBS series Fly Tying, the Anglers' Art or something like that, and took a local class.
Alas, had a basement flood and my supplies were ruined.
I tried tying flies too-- man, what an investment for the supplies. Late BF was the fisherman & loved to try out my creations. Watched a PBS series Fly Tying, the Anglers' Art or something like that, and took a local class.
Alas, had a basement flood and my supplies were ruined.
Posted by: JQ at September 20, 2025 08:23 PM (rdVOm)
139
AOP is it getting close to time for you to head south?
Posted by: Ronster at September 20, 2025 08:16 PM (00eCC)
Heading to the TX MoMee X in about 3 weeks.
Posted by: Ronster at September 20, 2025 08:16 PM (00eCC)
Heading to the TX MoMee X in about 3 weeks.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at September 20, 2025 08:24 PM (hA1Nw)
140
And, hobby-related: I am working on one of the hobby cars, a '63 Avanti. Came to me with a 283 McKinnon* engine and a TH350 auto transmission in it. Drives fine, but the transmission has converter drainback proble, and it leaks ATF all over the ground when parked for any length of time. Also had the wrong kind of rear axle in it, Spicer 27, instead of the correct Spicer 44.
Changed rear axle already. Now in the process of fitting 700R4 transmission. Mostly an easy bolt-in, but all the peripherals are different. Cooler lines, dipstick tube, shifter, neutral safety and backup switches, throttle valve cable, and harness for the torque converter lockup control all needed changed or added.
*a 283 Chevy engine built in the McKinnon engine plant in Ontario. 1965 and 1966 Studebakers used 283 engines bought from this plant, and this engine falls in that serial range. So, a small-block Chebby that was never in a GM car.
Changed rear axle already. Now in the process of fitting 700R4 transmission. Mostly an easy bolt-in, but all the peripherals are different. Cooler lines, dipstick tube, shifter, neutral safety and backup switches, throttle valve cable, and harness for the torque converter lockup control all needed changed or added.
*a 283 Chevy engine built in the McKinnon engine plant in Ontario. 1965 and 1966 Studebakers used 283 engines bought from this plant, and this engine falls in that serial range. So, a small-block Chebby that was never in a GM car.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at September 20, 2025 08:33 PM (hA1Nw)
141
"Piddling profit" is right! I looked into selling my flies-- no way.
One shop wouldn't pay enough to cover my cost of hooks, forget my time or the other materials!
One shop wouldn't pay enough to cover my cost of hooks, forget my time or the other materials!
Posted by: JQ at September 20, 2025 08:34 PM (rdVOm)
142
Hope the Studebakers have been put to bed and the Suburbans are ready to go.
Posted by: Ronster at September 20, 2025 08:34 PM (00eCC)
143
Hope the Studebakers have been put to bed and the Suburbans are ready to go.
Posted by: Ronster at September 20, 2025 08:34 PM (00eCC)
Well, Suburban #1 is ready to go. #2 still needs some work. #3 is moblie, and could be used if need be, although there is some work I would like to do on it.
Posted by: Ronster at September 20, 2025 08:34 PM (00eCC)
Well, Suburban #1 is ready to go. #2 still needs some work. #3 is moblie, and could be used if need be, although there is some work I would like to do on it.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at September 20, 2025 08:40 PM (hA1Nw)
144
I'm sure you will get it done. You are amazing.
Posted by: Ronster at September 20, 2025 08:43 PM (00eCC)
145
Huh. Clint Eastwood is in tonight's Svengoolie movie,"Tarantula".
Posted by: fd at September 20, 2025 08:48 PM (vFG9F)
146
I once made a whistle out of a small bit of bamboo.
That's all I got...
That's all I got...
Posted by: Mike Hammer, etc., etc. at September 20, 2025 08:52 PM (XeU6L)
147
I'm sure you will get it done. You are amazing.
Posted by: Ronster at September 20, 2025 08:43 PM (00eCC)
Well, thanks! I spent most of the summer working on #2 Suburban, and once it was able to drive down the road, I set it aside, and went to work on the Avanti as a change of pace. With any luck, I will have the new transmission in the car by this time tomorrow.
Posted by: Ronster at September 20, 2025 08:43 PM (00eCC)
Well, thanks! I spent most of the summer working on #2 Suburban, and once it was able to drive down the road, I set it aside, and went to work on the Avanti as a change of pace. With any luck, I will have the new transmission in the car by this time tomorrow.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at September 20, 2025 08:54 PM (hA1Nw)
148
Mostly an easy bolt-in, but all the peripherals are different. Cooler lines, dipstick tube, shifter, neutral safety and backup switches, throttle valve cable, and harness for the torque converter lockup control all needed changed or added.
--------
These have been the primary snag(s) for my '78 Cutlass Calais. Built in Canada with Chevy 305's. My intention is/was to bolt in an Olds 403. I mean, plugging an Olds engine into an Olds, how hard can it be? ALL accessories, mounts, brackets etc. are reversed.
--------
These have been the primary snag(s) for my '78 Cutlass Calais. Built in Canada with Chevy 305's. My intention is/was to bolt in an Olds 403. I mean, plugging an Olds engine into an Olds, how hard can it be? ALL accessories, mounts, brackets etc. are reversed.
Posted by: Mike Hammer, etc., etc. at September 20, 2025 08:58 PM (XeU6L)
149
These have been the primary snag(s) for my '78 Cutlass Calais. Built in Canada with Chevy 305's. My intention is/was to bolt in an Olds 403. I mean, plugging an Olds engine into an Olds, how hard can it be? ALL accessories, mounts, brackets etc. are reversed.
Posted by: Mike Hammer, etc., etc. at September 20, 2025 08:58 PM (XeU6L)
I have a '65 Olds Delta 88 with the 425 and TH400 transmission. Want that? It would make the Cutlass sit up and beg, for sure.
The darned dipstick tube was a chore. Located differently between the TH 350, and the 700R4. And the end that plugs into the trans case is different. Dipstick tubes from the 4L60/4L80 transmissions have the right bottom end, but are nowhere near the right shape. Ended up cutting tip off a scrap 4L80E dipstick tube, and brazing it onto the TH350 dipstick tube, maintaining the same overall length. Also relocated the little stay brace that goes under a bellhousing bolt. Puts the dipstick in a nice clear space to the right of the RH exhaust manifold. But there a couple of hours' work, right there.
Posted by: Mike Hammer, etc., etc. at September 20, 2025 08:58 PM (XeU6L)
I have a '65 Olds Delta 88 with the 425 and TH400 transmission. Want that? It would make the Cutlass sit up and beg, for sure.
The darned dipstick tube was a chore. Located differently between the TH 350, and the 700R4. And the end that plugs into the trans case is different. Dipstick tubes from the 4L60/4L80 transmissions have the right bottom end, but are nowhere near the right shape. Ended up cutting tip off a scrap 4L80E dipstick tube, and brazing it onto the TH350 dipstick tube, maintaining the same overall length. Also relocated the little stay brace that goes under a bellhousing bolt. Puts the dipstick in a nice clear space to the right of the RH exhaust manifold. But there a couple of hours' work, right there.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at September 20, 2025 09:09 PM (hA1Nw)
150
Well, time for me to go make dinner.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at September 20, 2025 09:13 PM (hA1Nw)
151
Cast a heart-shaped silver/palladium alloy locket replete with snap and hinge. The hinge was created out of sprue wax surrounding a .7mm pencil lead refill via lost-wax technique and a centrifugal casting machine for a college sweetheart that was sure to be my forever girl. She and the locket were history 3 months later.
Cast the wedding rings for my later actual bride ( God's plans are best eh?) out of 18k. Was re-casting 2 days before the ceremony as kept getting subtle porosity. Made it for the big day that was 43 years ago.
Cast the wedding rings for my later actual bride ( God's plans are best eh?) out of 18k. Was re-casting 2 days before the ceremony as kept getting subtle porosity. Made it for the big day that was 43 years ago.
Posted by: Billy the Mountain at September 20, 2025 09:24 PM (Yp4ud)
152
A motivating discussion is worth comment. There's no doubt that that you ought to write more about this
subject, it might not be a taboo subject but typically folks don't talk about such
topics. To the next! Cheers!!
subject, it might not be a taboo subject but typically folks don't talk about such
topics. To the next! Cheers!!
Posted by: https://beauty-fashion.fyi/ at September 23, 2025 05:45 AM (PvjoW)
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