How I got here

[GooGoo Man]

I would love to see the complete build of that plug.

I saw it at plugfest & thought it was amazing, nice job
A bunch of great ideas were put in that plug, thats what I call outside the box!

[ecduzitgood]

To start this build I start by making an outline of the shape I wanted and using a printer I made two versions one is a mirror image of the first. After spraying a thin coat of adhesive on the wood I place the patern on the wood and then using a scroll saw I cut following the outline of the patern.

Then I use my belt sander and random orbital sander to clean up the cuts and shape the plug.

After using my dremel with a 1/16" straight bit I make the cuts for the through wire to sit and glue both sides using marine grade epoxy clamp and let sit to cure. After a little more sanding it starts to take it final shape.

The next step is drilling for the eyes and magnet. In order for the eyes to line up I drill through with a small bit and then use a forstner bit to make the eye socket.

I sealed it with Minwax wood hardner next (this is my method and others with more experience may have different methods)

After allowing the sealer to dry I epoxy the magnet in place and the weights used to achieve the propper balance by testing how it floats in water.

After sanding the sealer to promote adhesion I then prime with a sandable automotive primer.

After sanding the primer for a smooth finish I apply the base color. (this photo is actually the first/prototype plug. I didn't take a photo of this one)

I also sand this coat to promote adhesion of the next layer/coat of paint (metalic irredescent pearl) and apply the scales using mesh. (after which I seal this layer with a light coat of envirotex in the spray can) and scuff it lightly again to promote adhesion.

The next step is painting the gill plates and mouth by hand. When doing this you will understand my sealing the scales so if I am not happy I can wash the paint off until I get it right.

I also seal this coat so when spraying on the overall color I can wash it off if I'm not happy without having to redo the previous coat. The final color coat is thinned and applied in light coats until I have the right amount of the scales showing through.
I have only gotten to this point and have to wait for the weather to warm in order to finish the paint.
I will see if I can make the eyes in the next day or two and will add that process.