Wanted to say "hello" from Germany

[sky]

Hi,

my name is Andy (age 47) and I am based in Frankfurt Germany. Sky has been my Nickname for a long time.

Whilest customizing a motorcycle in 2013/14 I had a really hard time getting the metalwork done to my satisfaction. I experienced the same major problems during the restoration of our classic car. This although we had appointed “specialized” shops only. At first I was really frustrated but in retrospect I am even somewhat glad I had those problems.

Although I have always been very interested in metal shaping and welding I (for some reason) had never felt the real urge to learn the crafts myself. Now I am investing every minute that my day job and my family allow. I found that I love designing and customizing motorcycles and would eventually like to get involved in rebuilding/customizing classic cars as well.

Unfortunately metal shaping is a dying trade/craft in Germany. True and experienced craftsmen seem to be “extinct” already and metal shaping is no longer a taught profession. So at the moment beside trial and error I draw knowledge from books, DVDs and online resources. Can’t wait to start learning from this forum of experts as well and hope that I can contribute something in return.

Thanks for offering the opportunity to participate in this forum.