So I started two shields and the other is to be a carry around shield - not for fighting. But the second shield will have to be a future post.
Unfortunately, I didn't think to photo document the build for either shield so I'll have to describe the process and you can see the finished product at the end of the post.
To start, I glued the planks together on a piece of 1/4" plywood to give it structural support (I wasn't going to put handles or reinforcing bars like I normally do). Then I cut the circle outside edge (using a dull blade on a dying jigsaw - but I perservered). Then a small hole for the hanger screw.
The boss was made from a dollar store stainless steel bowl that I pounded roundish (the term is 'dishing'), and then heated with a torch to blacken it somewhat. I nailed it on with carpet tacks.
The decorative mounts are made of leather, from a design of a shield mount found in Valsgarde, Sweden. This was the most painstaking part of the shield making as I had to create the template and transfer to the leather. Then cut out the pieces with a razor knife and dye them black. I have fooled a couple of people who thought the mounts were metal. Heh-heh.
A little glue and round spots hammered in and the decorative mounts were put on.
Finally, I rimmed it with black dyed straps and it is done - for now. I might add more decorative mounts later but I want to mull it over.
