Earlier Works - Gorran Avian

Prep Works

The following images illustrate how our bird sculptures are made.

Step#1. A life-sized drawing of the bird is prepared from observation and with reference to bird guides and images seen on the web.

Step#2. The outline of the bird is transferred (traced) on to southern yellow pine. Planks are 25mm thick and 300mm width, so larger birds require planks to be glued together.

Step#3. The bird outline is cut out using a jigsaw and the eye socket drilled.

Step#4. Details of the feathering, head and beak are carved or applied using a combination of knife work, sawing, awl scoring, wood filing and sanding.

Step#5. The wood is primed with white acrylic paint.

Step#6. A glass or acrylic eye is inserted into the socket and detail of the head painted with acrylics.

Step#7. The remaining parts of the bird are painted with acrylics.

Step#8. On the reverse of the sculpture the Gorran Avian logo is branded into the wood. 2 D-rings and a wire are applied to allow hanging of the sculpture. 2 drill holes (on the horizontal) are made to allow for mounting the sculpture flush against the wall.

Step#9. A coat of acrylic gloss varnish is applied to protect the sculpture. That completes the process.