FullMetal

@NobodySpecial For my skill level, I think Its smart to start out small. I'll probably use two pineapple cans, one for the base and a section of the other for the lid. After I'm comfortable with my skill level, I would really like to emulate a furnace built by Colin Peck. He used a beer keg, and It turned out beautifully.

I found a great example of a coffee can furnace on backyardmetalcasting.com, if anyone else is interested.

@Arftist Thank you very much! Your answer was Very helpful. I don't think I've seen any topics on here about coffee can furnaces. Can anyone tell me a little about them?

@NJanvilman I understand the difference between casting and blacksmithing. And I am very aware of the safety risks involved in both. I do not plan to start casting without a firm understanding of the entire process. All I'm looking for is a few book recommendations and a heads up on the "coffee can" style of furnace.

Hello all. I have just begun to delve into casting and blacksmithing. There is a profound amount of information on the subject. It can be quite a chore to dive into the bulk of It, much less find the right corner to begin at. I am currently looking for a book to buy that would explain the basics of metal casting, the absolute need to know necessities. I would also like to find another book that would expand upon these basics, not necessarily hardcore technical jargon, but something that would grant me deeper insight into casting and metallurgy. Any suggestions? Now, along with learning the basics of casting and keeping myself alive, I would like to begin tinkering with and ultimately building my own furnace. Since I'm a novice, I am going to start small, casting jewelry, small figures, etc. I have been looking at "coffee can" furnaces. Is this considered a legitimate concept? If so, where would I look to find detailed instructions on proper construction and maintenance of one? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Sorry for the long, rambling post.