Creating a large, perfectly spherical sculpture from flat wood pieces is a significant challenge, and the maker successfully addresses this by fabricating a 19-inch geodesic dome. This decorative turned geometric sphere is constructed entirely from baltic birch plywood and serves as a striking piece of art.
The assembly process begins with the maker ripping beveled strips on a table saw and cutting triangular pieces using a dual DeWalt miter saw station. The structure incorporates pentagonal and hexagonal multi-faceted caps, which are joined after the pieces are aligned with tape, coated with wood glue, and folded. The geometric sections are then held together using pneumatic fasteners, BowTie brand clamps, and tension cord.
Shaping the finished sphere requires specialized equipment. A custom rotating sphere-turning machine is employed for initial shaping, followed by a guided DeWalt rotary cutting tool that removes outer facets while the ball spins. The process of adding clamps to join the complex structure is noted as a difficult task to attempt. Once the overall form is established, the maker smooths the rotating ball with a handheld random orbital sander and applies a clear protective finish with an air spray gun.
The final product is impressive, displaying an intricate pattern of concentric circles and star- or polygon-like shapes. The wood layers alternate beautifully between lighter tones and thinner, darker outlines, uncovering concentric ring patterns from the laminated plywood. ODDBALL GALLERY - Keith Williams has produced a truly remarkable piece of turning and fabrication!
Project by ODDBALL GALLERY - Keith Williams. Watch it on their YouTube channel: