The Metal Workshop
Learn how to craft your own stunning swimming metal fish sculpture with step-by-step guidance, tools, and tips from my creative process.
Metal fish Sculpture
Hey!
I thought I’d share a bit about how I create my swimming metal fish sculptures. These are some of my favourite pieces to make—each one’s totally unique and has its own little personality.
They’re a great example of handcrafted decorative metal art, and they make bold, eye-catching pieces whether you display them inside or out.
It all starts with the frame. I use 3mm round mild steel bar to weld the basic shape. That’s the skeleton, and it gives the fish that flowing, swimming motion I’m after.
I sketch the design myself, so no two sculptures are ever exactly the same. Every piece is handmade metal art in its own right.
Once the frame’s sorted, I begin filling it in with 18-gauge mild steel sheet. I cut, shape, and weld each panel into place.
It’s a slow and satisfying process—kind of like building a custom metal sculpture one piece at a time.
One of my favourite parts is getting stuck in with the grinder. I don’t just use it for cleanup—it’s actually how I give the surface its texture and movement.
That’s what makes this metal fish decor feel so alive. The light catches the surface in different ways, creating a look that’s both rugged and refined.
Fish Sculpture Art
After everything’s assembled, I clean up the piece, may be add a patina for a touch of colour, or keep it raw to show off the natural tones of the steel. Then I seal it to protect the finish, so it’s ready to become outdoor garden metal art or a bold piece for your home.
If you’re into a bit of DIY, this is a great project to try at home. You just need a welder, some 3mm round bar, mild steel sheet, a grinder, and a sturdy vice. It’s a fun build, and you end up with a piece that’s entirely your own.
Every sculpture I make is built from scratch. No mass production—just me, a bunch of mild steel, and a workshop full of sparks. These fish seem to speak to people—there’s just something about them.
Thanks for checking it out—and stay tuned, there’s always something new swimming out of the workshop.
DIY MATERIALS & TOOLS (If You Fancy Giving It a Go):
Welder (MIG or stick)
3mm round mild steel bar (for the frame)
18-gauge mild steel sheet (for the body)
Angle grinder (with cutting & grinding discs)
Vice (for bending and shaping)
Wire brush or flap disc (for cleanup)
Clear sealant or metal wax (for protection)
