From raw steel to a work of art U Do It creates a multi-layer masterpiece for a fundraiser to benefit someone in need.
Fundraiser
I saw a friend’s post about a fundraiser requesting donations like baskets of joy. And I’ve always wanted to contribute in a meaningful way but didn’t know how. In the past we’d make a basket of soaps and beauty essentials. But I really wanted to give in a way that aligns with my heart and my passion.
My Experience
At this point I have made maybe 20 pieces of art of various sizes and complexities. My most recent has been a sign for our friends at the TV series Gravesend, which featured on Amazon Prime.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
Amazon.com Price last update on 2026-09-26 - Details
I’m not new to art but I’m definitely new to metal fabrication. Everything I’ve made so far has been for the purpose of learning and experimentation so I can learn more about the process. This also allows me to push the machine to identify it’s limits. For instance, this sign was made for RIM Cafe. I was ready to give up and not make it. The size of the lettering and how I would need to attach it to the RIM word was challenging. What I found out is that the Plasma CNC that I built was able to reliably cut 2mm holes. The screws securing the letters to the RIM word are 1.6mm screws. It is wild to me that I was able to achieve this. This was presented to Rene and Belle at the Gravesend Series Meet & Greet at South Phila at the Italian Market.
I Always Wanted a Plasma CNC
I’ve always wanted a CNC plasma table, so I spent over 5 months building my own from the raw steel tubing to the custom electronics. I was able to see the joy in the eyes of those I presented these pieces to. There’s more that I can do with it. I know there’s a reason why I built it.
It’s Becoming Clearer Now
The fundraiser post landed in my Instagram feed and I responded immediately. I seriously questioned my decision later. Why did I just do that? I’m committed now. I was originally going to make it open ended where the winner could submit their design. Then something came to me as a result of another request from a different friend. Why not make a seahorse?
The Seahorse
I went through some iterations but finally got to the point where I was happy with the Seahorse design in Fusion 360 (a computer aided design program). As this is being cut out by hot magma I still don’t have a vision of exactly what I want to do.
- ★ PORTABLE and POWERFUL--The LTP7500D can easily cut 1” (26 mm) metal with ultimate portability weighing only 40lbs; The LT7500D is an excellent choice for home DIY jobs and light duty small business projects.
- ★ CNC ENABLED Pre-installed CNC Interface with THC (Torch Height Controller) signal output. Non-HF Blowback Start, there is no HF interference on your CNC computer.
- ★ SETUP WITHIN 1 MIN--the per-installed NPT 1/4” industry type D plug and air filter regulator allows you to quick connect to your air compressor by using the stand coupler existing on your air compressor. The Non-HF start 14ft torch with central connector save your time to connect the torch to your plasma cutter. The whole machine can be setup quickly within 1 min.
Amazon.com Price last update on 2026-09-26 - Details
But then I lay the outline on top of the background and I begin to see a picture.
Now I just have to attack it with my angle grinder to give it some character. And I learned late in life that going perfect is not the answer. I intentionally left untouched areas with mill scale intact to give it some depth. some depth
Time to Play
Now that its grinded down it’s time to coat it and try out some mica powder on the seahorse backpiece. At this point I really think I got something good happening here. I coated this in full then began applying mica powder to it and adding more coating to it with an acid brush. And moving it around ensuring everything is coated.
- 【Super Surprise Color Combination】: This mica powder has 63 spectacularly vibrant and beautiful colors,each bottle is 10g/0.35oz.Just a little mica powder can bring a very gorgeous effect.With its shiny surface,this resin pigment provides a gorgeous and lasting effect for your artistic creation.
- 【Safe, Professional and Lasting】: Mica powder is essentially a powder processed from natural mica minerals,and does not contain harmful substances and irritants.Our mica powder pigment are 100% natural,mild and non-toxic. Professional resin pigment are worthy of your trust.Our natural mica powder pigments are high-density,so just a little can goes a long way, and there is a lasting color effect.
- 【Wide Application】: This mica powder of Cosmetic grade is a great way to create something unique and pleasing to the eye.Perfect for eye shadow,lip gloss,resin arts,acrylic paint,tumbler,coaster,nail polish,soap making,bath bomb,slime pigment,candle making and so much more.
Amazon.com Price last update on 2026-09-26 - Details
Why I Built my Plasma CNC
Now I realize why I built my Plasma CNC. I’m able to bring an idea to life, stylize it, and donate it to a good cause for close friends of a longtime friend in town.
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Video Credits:
Video Production: U Do It™️ Studios a Division of No Cheese Records LLC All Rights Reserved. No Cheese Records® is a Registered Trademark of No Cheese Records LLC All Rights Reserved.
Music Credits:
Bigginz Group Therapy
Associated Performer, Featured: Northside Nate
Associated Performer, Featured: Savvy Turtle
Composer Lyricist: U Do It
Producer: No Cheese Records
Publisher: Bigginz Publishing
Studio Personnel, Mixer, Recording Engineer: Northside Nate
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What’s next? Check out About U Do It, History of U Do It, and Mrs U Do It to learn even more about U Do It.
