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Shawn Mickelson (@kustom_mf)

 

Welcome to this week's #benchmarkspotlight (formerly the #weldershowcase) - we had the opportunity to sit down with Shawn from @kustom_mf and talk a little shop.
 
If you would like to be featured in our weekly spotlight (100% FREE) and have a chance at winning one of our Grinder Hoods please send us an email to leo.benchmarkabrasives@gmail.com to get you scheduled in an upcoming week. And for those of you that take the time to share your story with us, we'd be happy to provide a free BA banner. These spotlights are intended to highlight your skill, your business, and your tips and tricks.  Most of all it's to have a little fun!

 

 
Name:  Shawn Mickelson
 
Business Name:  Kustom Metalwerx & Fabrication
 
Location: Ridgefield, WA
 
Socials: IG: @kustom_mf  FB: kustommetalwerx
 
Website: www.kustommetalwerx.com
 
Specialties:  Automobile restoration and customizing
Tell us about yourself - what inspired you to get into your trade? And how long?
Since I was a youngster my dad has been customizing and painting cars. I spent every moment I could in the shop with him, and now my son does the same with me, so the passion is genetic I suppose. I've been modifying cars since I got my license. I have a motto....Stock Sucks hahaha.
 
  What keeps you motivated throughout the day?
Knowing that I'm doing my part in preserving American History with the ability to repair/rebuild antique vehicles that some may have seen as trash at one point.
What is your favorite shop tool and why?
My favorite tool is my TIG welder because it's a much cleaner weld process, I can weld any material that comes through my shop with it. And with TIG I'm able to hammer form welds on sheet metal to better shape after warping.
 
  What's your favorite piece that you've worked on?
Favorite piece that I've worked on would be 1939 Buick Convertible
What BA product is your favorite and why?
My favorite product that I use from Benchmark Abrasives is their 2" roloc grinding discs in 36grit and 60grit. 
 
 
What BA product surprised you in terms of quality - what about it set it apart from the competition?
The 6" cutoff wheels surprised me the most because they last as long, if not longer than the top other brands.
If there was one person you could collaborate with - who would it be and why?
If I could collaborate with Gene Winfield I would jump at the opportunity, he is a master of this craft.
 
 
Do you have any advice for the next generation that you wish you had when you first started?
Advice I could give is you can warp sheet metal with your grinder just as bad if not worse than welding, so be patient while grinding your welds.
What are your future plans for your shop?
Future plans for the shop is to hire another well versed car builder and keep growing.
 

 

A Note From Leo
Thanks for sharing your story with us, Shawn! Keep the tradition alive with your son!
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Next article Ian Houghton (@whiterhinocustoms)

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