Introduction of a non-RV rivetbanger

[machine_punk]

Howdy all...

I'm not building an airplane, but I would love to. My primary hobby is the actual riveting and building things with metal and rivets. I would love to build my own plane and I think the RV is where I would start. Unfortunately, I am currently medically disqualified from flying. I have soloed, though, in a Cessna 172, when I was stationed in Japan, right outside Tokyo.

When I turned 30, I decided to learn something new every year. that has ranged from learning to fly, to ballroom dancing, and many things in between. As the saying goes, "I am a jack of all trades, and master of... well, more than anyone ought to be. This year, I tried out for MasterChef Season 2 and made it to the top 100, out of thousands of people trying out. I have lived around the world and done a lot of fun and interesting things, but I keep returning to one of my favorite things to do...designing and building with metal.

After years of traveling around the world, being a nomad, and not having a place of my own, I settled down on the West coast, in Napa Valley. I finally got the chance to get some of the air tools I've wanted for over 20 years. I took an auto body course in England about six years ago and learned some neat sheetmetal skills. We welded everything in that course and made it 'perfect.' I figured out, though, that what I REALLY like is the look of riveted panels. While I can weld things together for a seamless appearance, that isn't what really appeals to me.

That's where the RV discussion groups come in and why I chose to become a member. When I've had questions about riveting equipment and techniques, most of my Internet searches returned discussions from this group.

I'm planning to build aircraft-like furniture from (very similar to MotoArt, but from scratch, with my designs). I'm going to start with building my toolboxes and shop fixtures, on the premise that is how apprentices of old used to learn their joining skills. Most woodworking apprentices build their tool box first, then start building furniture. Whatever I end up building after that, even if it isn't an RV, I absolutely love the look of riveted metal.

I've put together the basic tools so far, such as an air compressor, a cleco rivet gun, the CP 351 squeezer, and a few other assorted air tools...mainly bought from auction sites online. I tend to by used air tools, completely disassemble them, then clean and lube them. My shop isn't very impressive yet, just about 5 x 10 feet in the corner of the garage. But, I'm happy as a kid in a candy store.

So, THANKS, for all the information you have already helped me with. I look forward to actually participating in conversations and sharing my ideas as I practice and get better in my craft.

kev[/img]

[cjensen]

to Rivetbangers Kevin!! Glad you chose to hang with us!

Question on your medical...did you get denied? Or do you just think you can't get one because of a condition? Reason I ask, and you probably already know this, is if you haven't been denied, you can fly under LSA rules...and that means you could build an RV-12! We need more 12 builders here!



Anyway, welcome to the group!

[machine_punk]

Unfortunately, I was denied as a part of my application for my pilot's license, so I have actually been 'denied.' Thanks for the input, though...I'd be perfectly happy with an LSA certificate.

[Spike]

Welcome to the group

Spike