CNC Routing:
Custom SG-1 Viking Shield (Poplar)
(Disclosure: I have no affiliation with MGM Studios or any entities where the names “Stargate” or “SG-1” are used to represent the work of MGM and it’s affiliates. I make these props in good faith with the “fair use” clause which sees to protect makers such as myself. Fair use applies so long as we do not distribute or intend to distribute work claiming to be - or that could be mistaken by deception for - officially licensed products.)
When somebody on Instagram reached out asking for a custom Stargate-inspired piece, I couldn’t have been more excited - especially once I learned it was going to be a viking shield for a much larger collection!
Initially, I attempted to use Douglas Fir to keep costs down but it just isn’t a wood that likes to cooperate on the CNC; too stringy and full of moisture. The next step up the “price over quality” ladder was Poplar. Poplar is used often for face-framing cabinets and drawers as it sands and paints extremely well. Its is a sort of hybrid between soft and hard woods.
To accomplish the rugged/worn look the client was after, pallet wood (which is typically oak or pine) was used for the center cladding. Finished with his choice of stain, and it was ready for a handle and final top coat.
This is one of my favorite looking custom pieces to date.
