How To Make A Dome Out Of Sheet Metal

Divide this arc with stations every 6 inches along the length of the arc.

How to make a dome out of sheet metal.

We had fun making this video of a sheet metal dome build. The sheet metal takes the form of the design cut into the die. Then using a shot filled leather bag and a rounded mallet you rough shape it then you smooth it out with an english wheel then you repeat as needed to get the right shape. After filing the edges i was ready to start shaping the dome.

We had fun making this video of a sheet metal dome build. A partial section of a quarter dome simulates a typical panel section. I then used a beverly sheer which cuts using a hand lever and a scissor action to cut out the circle. Using a paper plate for a guide i drew a circle on the sheet.

The learning curve is a few weeks if you are already handy with sheet metal. Hydraulic die forming is quicker and lends itself more to duplicating formed art or other production. Anneal the metal sheet and let it cool. Cut the metal sheet so that it is about 10 mm larger than the form.

In both sheet metal is sunk or pressed into a die. Make a full scale layout of the dome arc using the 36 inch radius on a sheet of metal. Why not poke fun at some of the diy videos out there.