hildenmw

How do you keep from getting heat exhaustion (or at least feeling unwell) when you're working over a fire all summer, and what do you do to recover from heat exhaustion when it does catch up with you?

I hammer most the day in north Alabama then run and work out.
Use fans in the shop. Drink water constantly ( acouple of ounces atleast every 15 min ) but do not bloat. Your urine should be clear. A lot of the drinks like gatoraide are recovery drinks. Drink them in the evening.
Cool water not cold . Cool water absorbs quicker than warm.
Hydration is a 24 hr. task.
If you do start to feel weak retreat to a cooler place and seek help if needed. Its better to loose a days work than a week with an IV stuck in your arm.

And there are days with heat factors over a 100 maybe we need to take off or work nights.
Like momma said " It makes sense."

Keep records in a shop log too. I wiegh the gas bottle at the start and stop of a new job.

i have a couple of people who want to commission me to make some knives, but i'm not sure how to price my work. When I'm making chainmaille i charge 10$ per hour plus materials, i was wondering if that would be a good way to go with my knives. I especially want to figure out how to price a 50 fold hunting knife because he want's to pay me ahead of time. I'd like the opinion of others. I've herd that you should add 20% to the cost of materials. anyone want to give their two cents?

Go to ETSY.com and look through thier blogs. They give advise on pricing and retail math.

i have been smithing for 4 years and was thinking of doing some local craft shows. looking for any advise from those who have done the craft circut.

A lot of towns have a Art day or evning once a month. Entry fees are low . Sales are not always great but you get to meet other crafters. Net working with them you can find out about good shows or bad shows.

Your friends may tell you about shows they like . But whats good for a customer or visiter is not always the same fot a vendor