Hello All,
Just moved to the States from Northern Scotland where I was getting a PhD in Medieval History. Now that I'm leaving the student life behind (small apartments, no money... etc), I'm keen to get started in blacksmithing. I have quite a bit of woodworking experience, but have been wanting to try my hand at metal for a while now. So far have 0 hours of experience, but many of hours of research, daydreams, and boundless enthusiasm.
I've inherited a small collection of tools (including some hefty ball peen hammers), and have picked up a 25lb vintage anvil. At the moment I just want to get started by crafting a few more tools to build up my resources and experience (any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!) Planning to build a JABOD forge, although it will have to be a small one for now.
In any event, chuffed to be here, and can't wait to get started! Anything you wish you had known before you picked up your first hammer?
Cheers-- Alexander