Thanks Nathan. This was one of my more difficult projects mostly because there's barely a straight line on the thing. Fit up became a balancing act, almost literally, so I'm pretty happy with the results.
As for the shutter job, I spent too much time trying to figure out which method/tool to use and missed my window of opportunity to forge all of the pieces from scratch. Because of time and all I'm cutting the shapes out of 7ga mild steel and then forging the final shape, contours, and textures. I think I bit off a lot more then I could chew for my first forging project. I couldn't and still can't decide on treadle vs power, build vs buy, where in the hell I'm going to put it in my little shop, etc. Anyway, I spent too much time thinking and not enough time doing. The client didn't know I was going to try to forge everything from scratch so there's no problem there. I just thought it would be a good exercise and it probably would have been, it was just a little big for the first project. It's due here in a couple of weeks so I hope to get started on it tomorrow. I'll post picts as soon as I get some of the pieces knocked out.
Jake

Hey Jake- biting off more than you can chew at least insures a full stomach - if you can keep it down! I look forward to seeing more forge work from you in the future. It seems that you have at least a clientel that allows you a good deal of expression. The market I am in is heading that direction, but is still a few years from it. As to treadle/ power /shop space I recommend all three if possible. I am getting ready to build a treadle and I have never been so smart as to buy more shop space. I hate to be cliche'-ish, but it does in fact take spending money to make money. Talk to you soon.

hey nathan, wheres the pictures of your little hammer? c'mon get the cammera out,
Matt

Awww, Jake! That's really nice! I want an Aunt Mary. She's right- you do beautiful work.
Rob

Jake,
Do you have more railing at the bottom of the stairs? Also, is there railing along the steps? Just curious.

Were you able to finish drilling the tiles? I can't improve on the other compliments sent out by the forum.

There is only the rail around the opening of the stairway.

I finally got through the tile that day after going through a hand full of bits and purchasing a new hammer drill(which I don't think I needed, but can always use). After yours and everyone else's great responses to my tile problem I looked into and found both diamond and carbide abrasive hole saws which I will use next time. The results of which I hope will save me time and money and help keep my blood pressure down.

Thanks again for the advice

Jake

Hi Jake,
I really love this railing. I think the concept is totally unique and visually appealing. I'd like to thank you for your diagram on stairway angles. (e-mailed to me).
Art Metal is truly an unselfish group of peers, and has become an important part of my life. It's inspiring, and there's so much amazing work out there.Janet R.