GUEST BLOG: The Shadow BEGINS - Bottle Caps

I bet you probably thought that we collected all of those bottle caps and then lost steam on the project. Not so!

After collecting the caps, they needed to be hammered flat. We tested several different ways to smash the caps, including attempts at running them over with the car, but ultimately, we had to smash each and every one with hammers. Once the stockpile was complete, Nick was able to get started on the construction of the wood frame "canvas". Since the work will be heavy, he wanted to create something that would be sturdy and that he could add a french cleat for hanging. I've never heard of a french cleat, but I really like french toast, french fries, and french bread, so I'm sure it will be good. ;P

First, Nick acquired the wood he would need to build the "canvas" and additional supports. He rented a miter saw so that he could cut the pieces accordingly and then glued, screwed, and nailed it all together. He also stained moulding for a nice frame--a detail I definitely would have left out, not because it isn't worth it, but just because I'm lazy.

Nick is currently working on the sketch, which I find quite impressive. I know the photos are hard to see, but I hope you can get an idea for it.

Guest Blog: Bottle Cap Fever

So glad you’ve inquired about the Bottle Cap Counter, Deb! Allow me to explain…

I recently discovered and became interested in bottle cap art. The idea is that the caps act as the equivalent of “pixels” in a large image. Before you ask, let me tell you that Hallie Warnock is NOT an artist. However, my sweetheart IS an artist and is capable of creating something as novel as bottle cap art. So, until we have enough for his project, I have a new fixation!

Where are you Mr. Bottle Cap? (Tips to Seekers)
Mr. Bottle cap likes to hide where he is hard to find. He’s often squished into a dirt patch or pushed to the side of the road where the gravel collects. He's rarely in the middle of the sidewalk, so look to see if perhaps he's stumbled to the side. It’s not uncommon for him to be near a friend, so if you’ve found Mr. Bottle Cap, be sure to look for his wife! He is most commonly found where there is a lot of foot traffic or where he might tumble out of a trash can (parking lots, alleys, parks, construction areas). And, of course, he's VERY OFTEN found atop bottles!

These caps can be rusty, squished, and bent. They can be fresh off the bottle, shiny, and pretty. There is a place in the world of art for every bottle cap in every walk of life. If you’d like to join in the game, I’ll pay shipping for any donated caps. Donated caps will ALSO make it onto the Cap Counter!

We’ve got a long way to go!