DIY Network

*Marathon Special: "Curve Ball" Wall-Hanging From "Major League Remodel Marathon" episode DMLR-M3

A wall hanging that pays homage to one of the demons of both hitting and catching: the infamous curve ball.

Sometimes you may have some sports memorabilia that you'd like to display, but which has no real value as a collectible. As an example, and just for fun, baseball legend Johnny Bench created a wall-hanging that pays tribute to one of the most troublesome pitches in baseball to catch or hit -- the curve ball.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

• We began with a 4-foot piece of polar to create the backing for the display. The poplar stock was routed using a panel router to create a beveled edge for the look of a plaque. The edges of the back piece were then sanded smooth. A dark wood-stain was applied so that the plaque would closely match the trim used in Johnny's den.

• A standard wooden bat was cut in half lengthwise on a table saw (figure A).

• The halves were then cut into 1-inch slices using a chop saw (figure B). A pre-measured jig was used to ensure that all of the slices were the same size, and to ensure safe and accurate cuts.

• Once the stain had dried, picture hangers were attached to the back of the panel for hanging the piece.

• The individual slices from the bat were then applied to the front of the plaque in a curved pattern (figure C). A half-inch gap was left between each piece in the series and the piece next to it. A heavy-duty epoxy was used to fasten the slices to the panel.

• The wave of the pieces is a reminder of the curve ball. A standard-sized ball was incorporated into the design by fastening it with heavy-duty epoxy (figure D).

• Finally, a vintage locker plate from Johnny's locker-room at Crosley Field was incorporated as a finishing touch (figure E).