Koutetsu

That is priceless. Whats funnier is someone will probably buy it.

Frosty, Thanks. Learning how to talk like a smith is definitly helpful. This info is good too! Most of my ideas as to how big a smithy should be is based on seeing bad quality pics online, and pics from knifesmithing books by Wayne Goddard. Which I know see is unfortunate, since i don't plan on making knives. I plan on working on everything from farm equipment to medieval reproductions to artsy stuff. This will be in relation to my job, but not exclusive too it. Im studying art, and plan to go into sculpture/fine arts, but i have always been interested in metalworking and medieval history (usually a combination of the two). I had never considered having to store and manhandle bars about the smithy. THis location however, will definitely be permanent. The land is owned by my parents, and once i move on in two years or so, will be used by my brother, who is learning with me, or for storage. Today i increased the size to 20' x 15', but reading these comments, i think i need to go to a 20' square, or even bigger. I plan on making blades, up to armor, and other random things to be determined. Also, is there a thread just for smithy design? ive realized this might not be the best thread to post in. thanks!

Ted, when you refer to the size, how wide do you think i should go? I'm currently dumping fill to even out the area. Should i go with a square?

Hey guys. Newbie here, so speak Simply. I am building a permanent forge in my back yard, which will also do some service as a toolshed. I am new to this, and most of my knowledge on forge mechanics and workings has come from the site Beautiful Iron. Is this site trustworthy? It seems very knowledgable, but i would like to get some second opinions. My building will be 20' x10', and I am building a double forge, as several of my friends are helping me in the construction in exchange for forge time. I am going with a brick forge and chimney, with a partially paved dirt floor. Please, i am in need of advice. thanks!

wow guys, thanks for all the advice! I will definitely check to see if the local community college has any welding courses. I own a small portable welder, but i don't think it would be sufficient for any hardfacing. Like i said, i have no shortage of time. I'm still unsure as to what direction to go though. It seems like you guys have a few varying opinions, as to whether i should leave it as is, or go for the repair. I would like to try and repair it as much as possible, but i would not want to accidentally ruin it. Though I dont know if i need to worry about that. Francis, that is great! It's too bad i didnt see this until sunday. It would be great to get in contact with your group, as sarasota is where i am going to school next January.

"If you can weld I would remove the remains of the plate. Build it up level then hardface it." I'm not too familiar with welding... I do own a welder, and would be willing to try this if its easily explainable. Not really sure what you mean by 'hardfacing' either. As you said, i have nothing to lose, so i would definitely like to try.

Man... Thats a pretty definitive diagnosis Jeff... Thanks though. It might save me some wasted effort. :(

Sorry that they are so huge, i'm new to image posting.

Ok, here's the pics I took tonight. As you can see the back is in bad shape, and the top too. Any advice as to whether i should repair it, or trash it, would be very welcome.

Thanks guys! Ill try to get some pictures tonight. It would be great if i could use that anvil.

Hey guys, I recently acquired my first anvil, and it was free. Great deal, right? Well, it turns out this anvil was pulled up from a saltwater marina, it had been used as an anchor. The top has a large chunk from the corner, and an uneven, cracked surface. I am financially unable to buy a new anvil at this time, and live in an area without any smiths whatsoever. I have also looked for new anvils online, but shipping is terrifying. Can I save this anvil? Should I? Or should i save up for a new one? thanks, Smith-in-(self)training

Hey guys. I'm a fairly skilled artist, and am getting into smithing for the first time. I'm pretty green when it comes to metalworking, but i figure i have a while to learn the skills. I plan on making Medieval era arms and armor, and working on my own tools and equipment around the farm. Advice, tips etc. are all very welcome.