When I found the champagne spray design, I also found several other New Year’s designs that I hadn’t seen in a while. This “Happy New Year!” piece was one of them. You’ll need a full block plus a base piece (not shown in the template) to carve this design.

    This design has an unusual assembly in order to keep the weld line out of the lettering. It also creates a line that is more compatible with the design of the sculpture. However, it makes the carving more difficult and creates another issue as well (see below). You could certainly use a more straightforward stacking method if you don’t feel the extra effort is worth it.

    Split the block into two 4-5” slabs and cut at least the outlines of the template sections from the slabs. If one slab ends up slightly thicker, use it for the “YEAR” section. The dotted line on the “YEAR” section indicates ice above that you shouldn’t cut out until the sculpture is completely assembled. Attach the “YEAR” section to a stable base slab (at least 25”x10”x4”, and longer will work even better). Once “YEAR” has frozen to the base, prop the star side of the ice up so that the weld surface is level. This part of the process can be very tricky so be careful! Make sure that the propped up ice will not slide or tip. The base was attached first so that this is a little easier. Once “YEAR” is in this position, “HAPPY NEW” can be attached and allowed to freeze. Use the aluminum welding technique to ensure a tight weld.

    This sort of weld can create another hazardous situation if you’re not careful. When ice sculptures are stored in very cold freezers, as they’re brought up to warmer temperatures for display, they’re of course vulnerable to fracture. Welds are even more vulnerable to temperature changes and even if you’re careful to temper the sculpture, the piece can still sometimes pop along the weld. With a long weld set at an angle like the one in this design, a popped weld can create a major problem. To minimize the risk, take extra time to temper this piece if it was stored in a cold freezer!

If you would like to use this design or any other design on this site, please check the design usage guidelines. The design collection page lists designs on the site.