WW2 helmet

[WannabeFramer]

I have a customer wanting a very specific case for a WW2 helmet, approx 300mm diameter.

The helmet is to be displayed on a mannequin head, with two shelves above to display other memorabilia (badges/signs). None of the memorabilia is to be fixed - they want to open the frame and take out and rearrange the display over time.

The inside needs to be lined with black linen and have museum glass, but look like a frame rather than a cabinet. Ideally in walnut.

Any ideas on the construction? My first thoughts are to commission a joiner for the carpentry with me lining the inside. Or is there a 'framer' way?

[Justintime]

Have a look at Rose and Hollis A333 and A335 for starters. It's what they call very deep box section. If you know someone handy with a table saw, I'm sure you could build this and then cut it down to have a hinged front. Sounds like an interesting project? I'd be quoting three squillion at least for this.

[Justintime]

Or alternatively, ask a carpenter!

[WannabeFramer]

My first thoughts were a joiner and they are happy for me to farm out if needed.

I'll have a look at R&H thanks, I'm not that familiar with them.

Maybe not quite a squillion, but it will be whatever it will be.

[vintage frames]

Justin as usual, is right about those two mouldings. Together they can build up to a very deep box frame.
But you mention that the helmet is to be displayed on to a mannequin head.
That means viewed side on with a depth needed in excess of 300mm.

That's not a frame. that's a cabinet.

[WannabeFramer]

It does indeed, these are just approximate at the moment.

I don't have the helmet in my possession so am going on the customer measurements for now. I do have Dave the mannequin giving me company but he's not been that helpful thus far though

The mannequin also needs to be set into the base in a round hole, so needs to have sufficient depth for this (hard to explain). This is all the customer's vision, I just need to see what I can do with it. They want to use me, even if I farm out a lot of it.

Luckily no hurry.

[WannabeFramer]

Other thoughts are to build it myself, but have a local company veneer it for the walnut finish.

Ponderings galore today (and not enough work being achieved)