Post #20609 by KuKuAhu on Wed, Jan 22, 2003 6:55 PM

The bar will soon become home to a volcano of my own design. I plan to build a frame over which to put layers of mortar. One of those flame pot type lamps will be modified to fit the top, and I'll need to include a small fog machine for the occasional belching of smoke. Also in the plan is a means to create thin glowing lava flows down the sides. I'm going to vacu-form the flows in clear poly carb and then back paint them with semi transparent paint in oranges and reds. These will be set into the mortar with gaps underneath to install what will probably turn out to be rope lighting for that nice fiery glow. I'll back the lighting with red foil, and then touch up the whole works with black paint, maybe some touches of grey for a faux "ash" effect, and a bit of day-glo orange that will come alive under a strategically placed black light. The whole thing should be in one piece and thus mobile when finished (though rather heavy).

So far, I have only come to one snag: How shall I achieve the bubbly effect of volcanic rock? I am planning to try all sorts of things, brushes mostly. I figure a bristle brush pressed into the surface might make the appropriate holes. Then I'll need to add some larger ones with a dowel or two I suppose.

Has anyone done this sort of thing? Simulated volcanic rock successfully?

I'd love to hear suggestions, and I'll be sure to post pics when the beast is done.

pele