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Something I found today

15 years ago

Hello,

It's been about 3 years since I have posted anything. I used to hang out in the hypertufa forum and found it too time consuming. I recently got laid off from my job so, I'm looking for something to do to take up some spare time and hopefully make a little money at it too!!!!

I have some questions though about the totems. I really like the totems on the pole. For stability, rather that the copper pipe (cost) would the aluminum work better than the pvc. If I used the painted pvc pipe, would I need to reinforce it with rebar??

Also, in my town we have a Deals store which is also owned by Dollar Tree. I just found some cute plates that resemble a flower in clear, blue and green. The have a hole in the center to hold a tealight. I think these would be really cute in a small totem.

Thanks so much,

Rhonda

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Comments (6)

tasymo
15 years ago
Hi Rhonda!
Aluminum works just fine. I've got some of mine on old tent pole sections. Just remember, the heavier the Totem, the deeper you want to push the stake it's sitting on into the ground. Be sure to post pics of your finished Totems so we can see!! Kathy
Marlene Kindred
15 years ago
Most any kind of pipe will work...even large wooden dowels will work if you paint them or treat the part going into the ground with a preservative. And yes, you need to adjust the size of the post to the size of the totem. Post pix so we can drool over your creations!
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concretenprimroses
15 years ago
I use electrical conduit, metal tubes. But one wet windy day one of my plate flowers fell over and broke :( So now I drive a foot long or so piece of rebar in and drive it in over that.
Can't wait to see what you make!
kathy
Purplemoon
15 years ago
Hi and welcome Rhonda. I use either rebar or a steel pole, but slip a piece of pvc over it simply because I prefer the plastic against glass myself. And I've been using the skinny bud vases for the bottom, to slip over the pole, on most of my totems.
I'm looking forward to seeing your creations and hope you enjoy playing in the junk pile with us.

hugs, Karen
luna_llena_feliz
15 years ago
Welcome back, Rhonda! I have yet to make a totem so I can't help you there. I just wanted to say that I'm looking forward to seeing your creations!
laurastheme
15 years ago
I've used galvanized steel. It's cheaper than copper and I like the look.

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