minceyjs

What are the main tools someone needs when they are just starting out? Right now all I have is a hardware store hammer and a pair of long handled pliers. Thanks for the help.

Thanks alot guys I really appreciate your help.

Very cool. I've got access to tons of lawnmower parts, but I'm not getting the whole idea of your drawing. Could you provide some more information in detail. This may solve my blower problem. Thanks.

I'm not sure if this is the right place to post a safety question, but here it goes. I made a small forge out of a galvinized oval tub and lined it with a thick layer of a combination of clay and sand. The pipe for the air delivery is black gas pipe and it is attached to the bottom of the tub with pieces of aluminum. The fire in the forge only touches the clay and the black pipe. My question is, is there any danger in using the tub? When it heats will the nickel coating burn off and become dangerous? Also, should I remove the aluminum, even though it is under the clay? I am very new at this, and don't want to make a mistake in the beginning. Also, what is the best scrap material to use in a forge that would be safe and fairly plentiful, and not very expensive? Thank you for your patience and advice.

Hi, my name is Joe, I'm living in Savannah, GA and I am just starting out at learning to be a blacksmith. I love history and old technology, so blacksmithing has always been fascinating to me. Love this site, it has lots of hard to find information, and I hope to meet up with other smiths in my area so I can learn from them.