I’m a big fan of the comic strip “Bloom County” by Berkeley Breathed. So is my older brother who served in the Air Force flying B-52’s and T-38’s. I should mention that my brother is a bibliophile to the extreme (20,000 books? - maybe more) and has been going through a rough patch health-wise of late.
So, I decided to combine the strengths of my Glowforge, my CNC machine and my 3D printer to create a diorama (18" deep/wide by 12" tall) of Opus clasping a book to his chest titled “Antarctic Dreams”. Figured this surprise might brighten his spirits.
Opus and the lamp shade came off the 3D printer. I used my CNC machine cut out the MDF base and sculpt the scaled-down baseboard molding. Finally, the Glowforge cut out the floor boards (1/8" Baltic Birch) and the books (black and white heavy card stock).
As I went along, I decided I wanted the lamp to actually work, so I soldered up a short LED strip to a battery box which is attached to the back. It makes a nice accent light.
Personalized the collection of books strewn around the floor as ones I know he has in his collection. I sure wasn’t about to try and make all 20,000!
Anyway, I’m pretty happy with how it came out and I’m pretty sure my brother will enjoy it.
Very cool. I am sure your brother will love it. The added detail of the book covers really is a nice touch. I can imagine him playing with it - turning the light on and off! Great job. Such a thoughtful gift.
I am sure it will be loved. Came out rather awesome.
Bloom County triggered me though, so I imagine i will spend the next hour or so wandering into the archives. Has been long enough it should all be almost like new except for the “forgot the brakes” skit. I have that one on the wall.
