I am a Coach Builder

Long time readers will know CNCCookbook frequently mixes machine aesthetics and art with machining technique and knowledge.  I was drawn to CNC in order to make things, certain specific things.  I was captivated by the hot rod scene and wanted to create a roadster that was entirely my own design.  Along the way, I became totally seduced by the art of machining itself, but I will go back to making those things some day soon.

A long-time reader recently sent me a note about Shinya Kimura.  The video and blog post are very inspiring for all who love motorcycles and the art of making things.  Shinya is a motorcycle coach builder.  The coach builders, what the Italians call “carrozeria” or sometimes the more fun term “scuderia”, which means “Stable”, have become all but extinct.  Large coach builders, such as Pininfarina, still exist as industrial design companies.  But once upon a time, there were dozens of small bespoke shops that would create a body custom-designed for your tastes.  There is a wonderful auto museum at Blackhawk near where I live that has a bunch of cars from the era.

Check out the video to get stoked:

Now ask yourself, “What will I make, what is my art?“

I know a number of you gentle readers are making art of one kind or another.  There is a gentleman living near me who is also a motorcycle coach builder and I regularly correspond with folks who make everything from custom fly fishing reals to custom knives to titanium pens.

Please take the opportunity to post a pic or give us a brief idea in the comments section.

For more inspiration in the Art of Things, see the CNCCookbook Cool Things Pinterest page.  Many of the things shown there are fine examples of what CNC can do.