I needed a shovel in 1/25 scale for a project. This is how I made one.
First step is to determine the size of the blade. Then cut it out from brass sheet.


Draw the blade shape, tang, and step crimps.


Cut off the extra material


I found a brass tube in my material supply that was perfect for the diameter shape. With a pair of pliers, I held the blade piece in place for a few minutes to form the correct angle.

The tube is a smaller diameter than needed so when shaped, the blade will flex back out to the shape I need.

The size of the shovel blade and the overall scale of the shovel was first determined by what my shovel from the garage looked like next to me.


I looked at it and where it was in relation to my own foot and leg, then visually sized it against a 1/25 scale figure's leg I have in stash. No real measurements and size/scale formulas were used.

To shape the blade, a file was used. I did this after the curved shape was formed.
The tang and step crimps were cut and then shaped using two pliers.

KoSprueOne,

An exceptional job! Keep us posted???

I sure will. I wanted a bend in the handle so I almost changed the handle material to brass. But after visual comparisons and unanimous advise on another site, I'm going with the wood.
A toothpick is what I'll use.

This is the overall look I want for this shovel.

borrowed photo


I thought by using brass, I can easily bend and shape the handle to the look I wanted.


This is a round wooden (probably bamboo) toothpick. I like the wood look of this material better, but will have to bend it. I received several suggestions about soaking it then it will cooperate with me to the shape I'm looking for.

we'll see...

Shaping the wood is first.

I poured hot water into a coffee mug and used the same brass tube as before. I put the toothpick into the brass tube to keep it under water at first. I couldn't see it so found a clothes pin.

This set up should be a good form for the bend of the toothpick (handle).


So, now I can watch the development underwater.

It's not as smooth as I thought the curve would be, but it worked.

now letting it dry.

After the new formed handle dried, I impregnated it with CA so I can sand off the out of scale fibers that splintered away from the main stick. Then glued the handle to the spade tang.

For bending wood, may I suggest using steam rather than water? For the small diameters that we work with in modelling it is almost instantaneus in its effect. To "set" the wood, use cold water.

PM

very good suggestion. I'll try next time.