by Steven Johnson & Lord Sigeric
This summer Steve and Sigeric are attempting create and complete 2 Sugarloaf
helms. The Sugarloaf helms were the next step in the evolution of the Great
Helm . Although none are extant, such helms are frequently found in illustrations
and on knightly effigies circ. 1275-1300. The tall, pointed top of the
Sugarloaf offered a much better glancing surface than the older flat-tops,
allowing blows from sword, mace, or axe to be harmlessly deflected. A bold
brass cross enhances of most of these helms. Through out the summer we
will be posting pictures of our progress, and please feel free to make
any comments or suggestions (...because we don't know what the heck we
are doing...).
This project was started on May 16, 2002: The first step was to create
patterns for all of the parts, which we then transferred to the steel.
Each part was cut out using a hand shears and required additional grinding
and filing to remove any excess burrs.
June's Progress:
After all the parts are cleaned up, the next job is the forming of the
helm halves. The process starts with pounding each half into the dishing
form. The form we are using is made from the bottom of a welding tank.
This allows us to work curves into the metal and make a "Hopefully"
rounded shape.
After you get each side to match, the two halves can be welded together.
Any additional welding on the outside needed to be ground off to make a
smooth transition between the sides.
Holes for the flip up visor were added to Sigeric's helm.
...to be continued
Shire Home Page * News * Officers * Guilds and Groups * Local Calendar * Links
Webminister: Daniel of Rockhaven