These projects focus less upon function than form, allowing the student to express his knowledge of welding in a creative fashion. While the most obvious example of this type of project is to create a static sculpture, there are other projects to challenge the artistically inclined student. Moving sculptures or mobiles task the student to create a dynamic work of art, requiring not only understanding of welding technique but of physics principles such as inertia, balance and momentum.
These projects are focused on the creation of things that are useful in everyday life. These items can vary from simple and mundane creations, such as serving trays or lawn chairs, to complex and utilitarian ones like barbecue grills or fire pits. They can also be tailored to hobbies, such as planters or lawn racks. Most welding students would likely make extensive use of utility chests, hand carts, tool shelves, shop stools or welding tables, so they also make excellent longer-term projects.
These projects are focused upon the creation of items traditionally used for recreation or sporting activity. The simpler examples of this kind of project could be done over a few days and include lawn darts for lawn games, spinner targets for marksmanship or metal stands for checkers and chess. The more complex projects are generally performed by teams over weeks. Some of the more popular examples are motorcycle bodies, go-kart frames or ultralight aircraft structures.
The welding machine projects chosen by an instructor can be determined by several factors. The availability of materials should define the limits of how many resources can be allocated to a specific project. Secondly, available time must determine the maximum complexity. The projects selected should also reflect the educational objectives of the curriculum. Finally, the projects should be chosen to maximize the challenge to the student's capabilities while recognizing their individual and group limitations.