Preserved Through Planning
This was actually the first time I had heard directed at me “So I have these cool, valuable items that no longer really serve a utilitarian purpose, and would love a display made for them.”
Well, not exactly that wording, but basically that message.
The calipers in mention were those of my Great Great Grandfather, or someone that caliper of antique-ness, and six was the perfect number for a cool display.
When I brought them back to my room I set them down, and for some reason decided to deep-clean my entire room. Through the process I found the perfect little wooden case with intact snaps and a handle (fulfilling step one: find a prior acquisition that fits means).
With the case in hand, I recalled watching a Colin Furze video in which he builds his dream workshop, featuring Shadow Foam. The foam is a gorgeous way to build a custom and practical display for his tools. Boy would I love to do something like that someday. (Step two: use prior knowledge to formulate a next step).
In the meantime I knew I could buy a cheaper, thinner foam online and try my hand with it.
It took plenty of time to measure and cut everything, but the result was fantastic.
The process had me comparing myself to YouTube creator Jazza, who likes to try new mediums with a “Dabble, then Dive” approach. I had watched the video from which I gained a bit of knowledge about the foam, then I tested a knife on a piece I bought in order to see how it worked, then I created a display! (Step three: create what you wanted to in the first place and be proud of your handiwork).
All in all a fantastic crafting experience.