Lazze's History

I discovered a hand-operated machine that came with only a single pair of dies. After applying two beads to a sheet, I quickly realized that a motor was necessary for it to function as I envisioned. I proceeded to install a motor and sourced an electrical foot pedal to facilitate the back-and-forth movement. This enhancement allowed me to achieve significantly more with the sheet metal.

Each experience has been a learning opportunity, propelling me forward. Over the years, I have refined my techniques, machinery, tools, instructional manuals, and videos, enabling others to learn Metal Shaping much more efficiently than I did.

Our capabilities include cutting, bending, shrinking, and stretching sheet metal. Mastering these techniques empowers us to create virtually anything we desire.

The journey to my current expertise in Metal Shaping has been extensive, marked by numerous challenges. There were many moments when I felt like giving up, yet an inner voice urged me to persist. Each challenge led to new discoveries and enhanced my understanding, allowing me to exert greater control over the material and enjoy the process more.

One of my greatest fears has been the prospect of making mistakes. I was raised with the notion that mistakes were unacceptable, leading to a fear of initiating projects. However, I later learned that success in any field requires the ability to make mistakes and rectify them, as both experiences are essential for growth. It is crucial to avoid repeating the same mistakes while expecting different outcomes, as that is a path to frustration.

Even if I constructed a car body that was only 75% satisfactory (with 100% being the ideal), I recognized that I could improve to 95% in the future, and that was acceptable; I was learning. I remind myself that everything began from a flat piece of sheet metal, which is quite remarkable. It is vital to take pride in your work, and I encourage you to feel the same about your own creations.

When we’re finished, we know how we should have done it.

When we reflect on our completed projects, we often realize how we could have approached them differently. The LAZZE Method has transformed my perspective on metal shaping projects over the years. My understanding has evolved, largely due to the insights gained from my students, who consistently introduce new techniques and mistakes that I have not encountered before. This dynamic learning environment allows me to absorb knowledge at a significantly faster rate than if I were to work in isolation.

Currently, I analyze projects in a three-dimensional context, deconstructing them into specific components. It is crucial to maintain a vivid 3D mental representation of your intended outcome. Without this clarity, the likelihood of achieving your envisioned result diminishes considerably. This principle applies universally; a clear mental image is essential, as our minds inherently process information visually.

A notable experience from 1991 illustrates this concept. While constructing my first steel body for a '33 Roadster from a '33 Ford four-door, a friend inquired about my process. I replied, “I don’t know, I just made it.” Upon further reflection, I recognized that I had a distinct mental image of a '33 5W coupe with its roof removed, which guided my actions. This mental visualization directed my hands, enabling me to create the first '33 Roadster body in Sweden. This project eventually evolved into a '33 3W Coupe and laid the foundation for the metal shaping classes I conduct today.

Having taught metal shaping for over 16 years, I have assisted numerous individuals in constructing their own vehicles and various projects from the ground up. Each endeavor begins with a 3D mental image.

The 3D model could represent a left fender while I work on the right side, or it might take the form of a wooden buck, a fiberglass body, or individual body parts. In the absence of a reference point, I prefer to create a wire frame as a structural guide, providing a visual framework that helps my mind issue the appropriate commands for the task at hand.

Many individuals encounter difficulties due to a lack of a well-defined mental visualization. From this foundation, I can create templates, utilizing these designs to anticipate the configuration of the panels. Once I have gathered all necessary materials and cut the required sheets, I can reference the 3D model I possess to identify the highest point.

It is crucial to begin shaping a panel from the interior and to use the English wheel to form the convex shape, particularly if the panel is too large to manipulate from the exterior. For instance, when working on a door skin for a 1933 Coupe, I initiate the process by wheeling up the crown, or convex shape. There is also a video available on this topic in my collection of free resources. Once the templates align properly, I can proceed to the subsequent phase, which involves adding the bead to the door skin.

Upon completion of that step, I can advance further, depending on the height of the doors. If the door skin is slightly taller than the bead, I can trim the edges, ensuring there is sufficient material to fold around the door frame at a 180-degree angle, which I will accomplish using the Bead Roller.

This explanation illustrates our methodical approach; we tackle each task incrementally, transforming the seemingly impossible into reality. We learn progressively, fabricate components step by step, and assemble these parts into a car body or any other project, one piece at a time.

What are your thoughts on metal shaping? Do you perceive it as difficult or straightforward?

Metal shaping becomes manageable once you acquire the necessary skills; the most challenging aspect lies within your mindset.

I attended a personal development seminar in Stockholm led by Brian Tracy, whose work you can explore at www.nightingale.com (though it is not focused on metal shaping). Following the seminar, I began to engage with the program, yet I found myself disheartened by the lack of immediate results. I realized that it took me 33 years to become the person I was, and to achieve better outcomes in any endeavor, I needed to cultivate patience and allow the process to unfold over time.

After a year and a half, a realization dawned upon me; I recognized that my thoughts and reactions were evolving. In that moment, I understood that I was progressing, and the process was indeed effective. To gain proficiency in a particular field, one must allow time for learning and the development of new habits, which is essential for success.

Metal shaping follows the same principle. The courses we provide are structured as step-by-step programs that guide you through the entire process. Initially, we focus on the fundamentals of the tools and machines, followed by an exploration of various hand tools, equipment, and techniques that I have honed over the years. Subsequently, you will engage in hands-on practice with these tools and machines.

In the Step 1 class, I demonstrate the techniques I've refined to achieve optimal results with minimal effort.

We involve practical application, where you can create components such as a motorcycle fender, cowl panel, rear quarter panel, door skin for a 1933 Ford 3W Coupe, aluminum scoop, dashboard, and other parts of your choosing during the three-day Step 1 class. You will have the opportunity to craft the components you have always aspired to create but may have lacked the confidence to attempt.

A prevalent misunderstanding regarding Metal Shaping is the belief that it is a difficult process. In reality, the opposite is true; if one approaches sheet metal in a manner that aligns with its natural properties, it becomes possible to create virtually anything. However, it is essential to think in three dimensions. Engaging in a struggle with the material will lead to unsatisfactory results and ultimately failure.

The perception that Metal Shaping is unachievable often stems from an inability to visualize the step-by-step process. Individuals tend to view the entire task at once, which can be overwhelming and hinder their ability to determine a starting point.

In truth, the process is remarkably straightforward—once the necessary knowledge is acquired. Initially, it requires self-discipline to embark on this journey, but self-discipline is a skill that can be learned. Similar to mastering other skills, such as riding a bicycle or hitting a baseball, success in Metal Shaping hinges on the mastery of a few fundamental techniques.

To achieve mastery in Metal Shaping, it is essential to cultivate self-discipline, dedicating approximately one and a half hours daily for a duration of one to two years. This commitment will enable you to refine your skills both mentally and physically, allowing you to navigate and learn from your mistakes effectively.

Mistakes will transform into valuable opportunities for acquiring new techniques. Consider the question: What contributes to Lazze's exceptional proficiency in Metal Shaping? The answer lies in consistent practice, whether daily or several times a week, accompanied by diligent note-taking. Each student presents unique creations that broaden my understanding, and I also gain insights from their errors.

With five students in each class, my learning accelerates five-fold compared to solitary practice, enriching the knowledge I can impart to you and others in future sessions, drawn from the collective experiences of previous classes.

As you internalize the techniques of Metal Shaping, the process will become increasingly intuitive with continued practice. You will gain clarity in your direction; however, it is important to acknowledge that challenges will inevitably arise in Metal Shaping and in our endeavors. The true achievers are those who confront and resolve these challenges, which is where the enjoyment in Metal Shaping lies, as we continually uncover new discoveries.

Every step along the way will be distinctly outlined and readily attainable. As you progress, you will clearly observe the extent of your advancement and the enjoyment it brings.

The most advantageous aspect is that this process will occur automatically. It will not be difficult or feel burdensome; it simply functions. With a natural and effortless approach, you will shape your desired outcome whenever you choose. I am here to affirm that you possess this capability!

Take a moment to consider how transformative it would be if you harnessed the power of self-discipline and applied it to Metal Shaping. Your skills will improve progressively with practice; that is the essence of the process.

Here are seven exercises - new habits to develop your Metal Shaping skills

• Take a "Hands on Class"  Develop a firm foundation in Metal Shaping techniques. Ask around; “who has a good reputation in Teaching Metal Shaping?”
   
• Watch videos, read and look at instruction manuals that show you step-by-step how it's done, if you do the same thing as they show you, you’re going to have the same result, It's simple as that. If you use the same tools/machines as they using, you are going to get the same results, it can't be other than that. Try to pick up as much information as possible from people who are good at Metal Shaping.
   
• Make a new habit and begin to practice a little every day on the English Wheel, Bead Roller and Shrink/Stretcher. That's all you’ll need along with some hand tools. You’ll begin to understand that you’ll either be shrinking, stretching, cutting or bending; that's all you can do in Metal Shaping
   
• Make something pretty simple, a small patch panel for a car body and build up your self confidence step-by-step in Metal Shaping. DON"T MAKE SCRAP PIECES, it's not good for your learning process.
   
• Write down the things you’re doing, so you can remember the details and go back to repeat them often. The more notes you take; the faster you'll improve at Metal Shaping.
   
• If something goes wrong you can always go back and look at the last thing you did. Analyze the problem and you might find the solution in doing the opposite of what you did in the first place. You'll find that you must either Shrink Stretch, Cut or Bend, to solve the problem.
   
• Promise yourself to persevere, whatever happens, keep going, and if you need help, the help is out there. There is always someone out there with a solution to your problem who can support and coach you to get what you want.
   
• Don't be afraid to ask for help, the solution may come to you in the middle of the night, as it has many times for me. There usually is a solution to your problem hidden in the basics of Metal Shaping.

The Advantages of LAZZE's Metal Shaping Education

The advantages of LAZZE's Metal Shaping education program include the opportunity to learn through hands-on experience, DVD video classes, or instructional manuals. Each of these methods provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to enhancing your skills.

Select a program that offers the guidance or support of a coach, as this can significantly enhance your experience. Having the ability to pose questions regarding any challenges you may face and receive prompt responses is invaluable. Such situations are inevitable. Even after many years, I still encounter difficulties in metal shaping and seek out solutions. I meticulously document all my projects and maintain a repository of solutions for both common and unique issues I face, enabling me to assist you in overcoming your challenges and progressing with your project.

Why choose my Metal Shaping courses?

•  First of all, to be part of LAZZE’s Metal Shaping program, DVD video or hands-on classes, you'll be having much more FUN! You learn by doing and I'll explain everything in detail.
   
• Time and Money is what you’re going to gain. If you do it as a hobby, you’re going to save time and energy. When you can do the job on your car faster and with better quality, you don't have to pay someone else to do the job for you.If you do it for your own business, you’re going to do a better job and do it faster. That means you will earn more money, which gives you more freedom and you'll see your business growing. Your customer will be overwelming what you can do.
   
•  You'll feel the satisfaction from creating something from nothing. The creative process will improve your overall thinking and problem solving skills.
   
• You’re going to make your dreams come true! It happened to me and it's going to happen to you. Just do the same thing with the metal as I do, and you’re going to have the same outcome.
   
• Think about it this way, when you learn how to shape Metal any way you want, the sky is the limit for what you can do, you can create anything you want, it doesn't matter as long as you control the sheet and that's what I'm going to teach you.
   
• You can increase your income a lot, when you do better jobs and do them faster. You get more customers because you’re building up your reputation on every job you do.
   
• People will recognize you and the job you do and they'll talk to their friends about you and you know that word of mouth is the best way to build up a reputation, and who knows; you might get your car in an article in some magazine one day.
   
• You’re going to feel motivated to do more, the more you learn, the more motivated you'll be. I have seen that so many times on the hands-on classes; students can't stop working when they see that they can shape metal anyway they want to!
   
• You'll feel energized; you have something to look forward to. You’ll want to learn more. Metal Shaping can quickly become a passion.
   
• You'll feel that you can build anything you want, and that's exactly right.

Harness your capacity to manipulate metal using your hands. Acquire the skills to mold your future under the guidance of an expert in Metal Shaping. Begin your journey today to enhance your confidence, develop your skills, and increase your income through Lazze Metal Shaping education. Whether you opt for the practical classes, the DVD video program, or the Instruction Manual books, make the choice to embark on this path now. You are on the verge of discovering a thrilling new opportunity. Subscribe at www.youtube.com/lazzemetalshaping to be among the first to receive updates on upcoming free videos and new programs from Lazze Inc.

To your success!
Lazze Jansson
Lazze Inc.