my flying reindeer ice sculpture is a pretty large piece, even though it’s kind of a small picture
my flying reindeer ice sculpture design
*updated 5/23/23 when added to iss
I first posted my flying reindeer ice sculpture design back in 2008. This is definitely one of the designs that I’d like to go back and change since it’s really unnecessarily heavy and difficult to move. I feel like the clouds were just me going: “I don’t know what to put here, so I’m just going to make it clouds, so that it’s flying.” Also, he looks kinda angry 😡😆
The text from the original post is as follows (with minor changes):
A chef requested this ice sculpture design depicting one of Santa’s reindeer flying above the clouds. I didn’t have anything on the site that matched up with what he was looking for, so I put together this design based on reindeer that I’ve carved in the past, and some photos and other artwork. I have not carved this design, but I’ve certainly carved a lot of reindeer, and there’s nothing technically unusual in this design that might lead to unforeseen problems.
This design requires two blocks, and if your ice blocks are slightly different thicknesses (if they’re not trimmed, for example), then use the heavier block at the bottom. Prior to the application of the template, one block should be stacked and welded on top of the other block.
Make sure that the weld is particularly tight at the spot where the front legs cross it. The aluminum welding technique should be used if possible to get a weld that’s strong and as invisible as possible, since it runs right through the reindeer. Other than that, make sure that your weld results in a strong and stable structure that you can safely carve your reindeer out of.
The antlers are flat welded to the top of the reindeer’s head. I usually find it easier to carve both antlers as one piece, joined near the bottom where they attach to the head. Make the antlers a little heavier near the bottom and towards the front, so that it’s not as unbalanced and attaches a little more easily.
Moving this sculpture can be challenging, as it will be heavy. A weakness in the current design is that the front end of the sculpture is difficult to get a hold of and lift due to the smooth cloud surfaces. If I get a chance to rework the design, then I’ll address that issue.
the weld needs to be tight where the front legs cross it
different design approaches
When it comes to different design approaches for my flying reindeer ice sculpture, I really think a reimagining is in order. This could be a really cool sculpture, but it’s not. Since I’m in the midst of rebooting the entire site right now, it’s tough to focus on single posts. So now is not the time. But MAYBE I can do something before December. Well, definitely I can do something before December, but it might not be the one in 2023 🤣
how would it work on a CNC machine?
Right now, I’m just sculpting this by hand. The design is probably not something you’d do on a regular basis and it’s a big sculpture that is really best suited for an outdoor winter festivals.
for more info and some guidelines
If you have any questions about my flying reindeer ice sculpture design, email me or comment below. (It might not let you though.) If you would like to use this ice sculpture design or any other design on this site, please check the design usage guidelines. The design collection page lists designs on the site.
You might also find photos and info from this entry on the ice sculpting secrets facebook page and you can comment there as well as below. Thanks!
