diamonddave1535

Here's another fellow Tennessean now! While my profile is basic, it does list my location! Feel free to contact me guys! Dave

1) Name: David (Dave) Dodson2) Location: Lewisburg/Columbia, Tennessee3) What type blacksmithing do you do, what do you make. * Knifes / Metal Art4) How and when did you get started in blacksmithing * Right after I was Medical Retired from the US Army, I found myself bored out of my mind. Then, someone said: "You should makes knifes, and learn how to do it with Damascus." Ever since, I've been hooked! 5) What object or thing did you use as your first anvil, My first anvil was an old Civil War Era Anvil, suffering from an obvious deformation / bow in the center of the hammer zone. 6) Tell us about your first forge, hole in the ground, camp fire, brake drum, stacked bricks, Yep, hole in the ground! I used a 50 gallon drum, with an arch cut from the bottom. I made a tuyere from the ground and even though I used Black Locust, it took forever to heat steel until I learned about the heat produced from COAL. 7) Who assisted you or encouraged you in the craft My parents have a farm in Culleoka, TN, and they encouraged me teeth and nail. Needless to say, my X-wife was furious with my new found love of making knifes, so I only put up with this for a few more months.... 8) What event changed your attitude about blacksmithing I fall in love with it daily, so it's an evolution! 9) What tool has changed or made your life easier in the shop Ha! Anything I can get my hands on or is quality. I am about to build me a major shop and include some very nice essential items all Smith's need. Therefore, I look forward to the future and the products I produce!! 10) What advice would you give those starting out in blacksmithing Learn...Learn...Learn...and never quit! Network, make friends, do favors, research, try out anything! Maintain a standard and be good to the friends you make! 11) What advice would you give those already involved in blacksmithing The art of being a Blacksmith is an antique art; therefore, lets keep the coals hot and continue to share and learn the legendary art! 12) What are some of the interesting things that have happened to you in your life as a blacksmith. While I may not see the art in products I produce, I am simply amazed how others view my pieces pale to my opinion. My most major appreciation from the pieces I produce are the smiles and 'thank yous' I receive when I give these products as a present! I look forward to interacting with everyone and learning precious skills along the way!! Dave