Greaves again...

[Orazio]

Maybe I'm just really dense, but I'm about to come out of my skull trying to get a frontal greave pattern figured out. What I don't understand is how to figure out this shape:


(sorry about the stolen image, but it's the only one I could find)

These are exactly the kind of greaves I'm trying to make, but this shape (or anything even remotely similar) is eluding me. Anyone have suggestions?

[RalphS]

Greaves are tricky, because they are curved all over and in various directions. And they are made in one piece.

This means that you first have to learn or decide how you will shape a flat piece into something curved. Will you dish it? Will you raise it? Will you stretch one part or compress another? How will you combine all these techniques?

Once you're that far, you should probably have an idea whether the circumference at a certain spot will increase or decrease during shaping, and whether a straight line will get curved.

If you're not quite sure about it, just take a lot of margin, shape your greave, and cut off everything that's not needed. After having made a few greaves that way, you'll know where you tend to cut off metal, and where you perhaps would like a bit more. Adjust your pattern, and after only a few pairs of greaves you'll have the perfect pattern, that will work just for you. Anyone else will most likely shape in a different way, and require a different pattern.

[WaaaghBoss]

You can always make a pattern by wrapping the lower part of your leg in some disposable cloth, then covering in duct tape. Cut off where you want the seams (both sides, usually). Smush or iron as flat as you can get it. Add about 1/2" to an inch to the sides. Hammer to shape, cut off excess.

Cheers!
~Kevin

[Trevor]

It's always easier to cut off metal than to cut on metal...

[Thomas H]

take some measurements, use Patricks image as a guideline for a pattern and add 1/2 an inch.

[Josh W]

How far away from Patrick Thaden do you live? I've visited his shop several times and have always found him to be immensely willing to teach and share his knowledge. Patrick is a first-rate gentleman. Why don't you ask him if you can visit and see if he will show you a trick or two?

[Orazio]

That's not a bad idea, Josh, I didn't even notice he was in Texas. Dallas is about 4-5 hours away, but I have relatives there, so it's not impossible...hmmm...