Tony: You are correct that you would probably sell very few videos of your advanced techniques to this group. And I would wager that nobody will ever attempt to do what you do. For the beginner metalworker, you must try to keep everything as simple and inexpensive as possible. So, instead of talking about your manufacturing processes specifically, you could maybe discuss the different types of metalworking in a general sort of way without going into a lot of detail: welding, soldering, lost wax, nut and bolt assembly, molds, engraving, etc. Then, of these different methods pick one or two which could be used by the average hobbiest to make a sundial.
For example, one could buy a sheet of 1/8 " brass, cut it to shape for the dial face with a 1 1/2 " Dremel composite cutoff wheel, cut the gnomon the the same way, then drill holes in plate using metal drill bits, and fix the gnomon to the face with nuts and bolts. To engrave the hour lines and numerals, one could use the diamond points and cutoff wheel that I describe in my article. Or, using the great variety of factory precut metals that are available (sheets, rods, strips, tubes, wire, cable, blocks, etc. With just a drill, nuts and bolts, one could make an "Erector Set" type of sundial. (I saw an actual Erector Set Equatorial sundial somewhere on the net and it was beautiful!) There is probably even some simple welding or soldering that the beginner could do using those hand held propane tourches or electric soldering irons. I think It is important to keep things simple and inexpensive so people aren't afraid to try. Then, send the video of what YOU do to the Smithsonian for safekeeping! John Carmichael 32.3N111W Tucson Arizona http://www.azstarnet.com/~pappas
