Occasionally, we’re asked to do custom repairs and refurbishing. Usually, it involves wood art and other outdoor items damaged by UV exposure, weathering or vandalism. Since custom service is part of Paxton Signs’ business model, we welcome custom repairs and refurbishing. They’re interesting, although sometimes challenging. For example, a recent project involved a retired Navy captain and his beloved hand-carved, wooden eagle. The eagle was quite old, weathered, and in need of TLC. His question: Could we repair the eagle that needed new wing tips and then freshen and refinish it after years of outdoor exposure? Further, could we create a replica TWICE the size of the original, say, 6 feet across?

Yes, yes and yes.

How we repaired and refurbished the Navy captain’s eagle

Although we prefer to use more refined carving techniques, the goal of the project was to repair the eagle, then duplicate it twice the original size, honoring the original artist’s vision and workmanship.

Because the original eagle was old, its finish was the first consideration. If we used the wrong refinishing product, we could make the result worse than the original. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to determine the original finish. As a result, we decided to use paint and faux techniques to restore its appearance.

The wing tips required repair. We prepared the original surface for new replacements by sanding and shaping the area to accept the new tips. These were also shaped, then carved and glued to the prepared surface. Once painted, the repair was invisible.The captain was thrilled with the finished large replica, pictured above. It will grace his property entrance. The smaller, original eagle will be displayed close by.

The custom repair and refurbishing process, below. Left: the original eagle.  Center: the wingtip repair.  Right: the finished wingtips.

We specialize in Communication Art!

Paxton Signs’ more than 41 year history includes hundreds of signs. Some are major monument signs, some small business signs. We’ve created ranch signs, lighted signs and signs made from recycled wood. We specialize in hand-painted and carved signs. We also offer vehicle and fleet graphics.  Paxton Signs provides a continuous variety of communication art for Fort Collins, northern Colorado and the surrounding mountain areas.

See more Paxton Signs handiwork on Pinterest at, https://www.pinterest.com/boliver0474/boards/

View Paxton Signs’ galleries at www.paxtonsigns.com, or by using the menu bar, above. Contact us at 970-221-5519