Hello from Quincy, IL
 

My name is Ray Coleman (Hnstray) and I am very pleased to be joining this forum. My fascination with the art of metalshaping ("panelbeating") began many, many years ago when I first learned it was how most of the classic era automobiles were made and also the cowlings and fairings of 1930's era aircraft in particular. However, I really had no idea just how it was done besides the most rudimentary of methods.

My career has been in the auto business, early on as a body shop apprentice, mechanic and eventually sales. I retired a few years ago and spend a lot of time in my shop, working on my old cars and other smaller projects. I have accumulated some equipment and took some metalshaping classes few years ago as well. Much of what I have done so far though, is in fabrication work in heavier structures (3/16" to 3/8") rather than lighter guage sheet stock.

In any case, what I have observed so far is very impressive and I am looking forward to gaining new friends and new skills in this hobby/art form and hope to meet many of you at future gatherings. Meanwhile, I will be "mining" this site for nuggets of information and insight.

Regards,
Ray

Ray, welcome to the site and thanks for the introduction. Hope you find the site helpful and that you can learn more about metal shaping here. If you have questions someone will try to help. Thanks for joining us.

Yea you made it

It was nice meeting you and welcome aboard

Hi ray
glad you like the site. Do you have any pics.of what your working on.

We have some talinted folkes that are in your area.

Johnny

Welcome to Allmetalshaping Ray!

Welcome to the site Ray. I live right across the river from you in Taylor.

welocme to the site.. I'm north of you in Golden

Hey Ray, across the river from you as well south of Hannibal, Mo!

Welcome Ray. I'm just one county north.