Goods

Not done with it yet. Still have to make an internal scroll/brace for the handle, refine the radius at the tensioner pivot, and drill for the pins and rivets. Overall clean up and coating as well. At least a few hours of work.

Haven’t posted any work up till now, but I thought I’d share the latest project. Visiting family in two weeks and need to have a Father’s Day gift ready. Well I hope this turns out. Still a few hours of work to do, just need to have time available when it’s not raining...

Scientist, I got started with blacksmithing as a result of my son building a bucket forge very cheaply on his own. While it worked (kind of), it was very difficult to manage the fire, and it burned through fuel very quickly. (It was enough to get him going and to pull me into the addiction...) I would not recommend using this setup at all. Go with a JABOD concept and modify it to your resources and needs. I’m now using an old machine controls cabinet laying door up on a stand, filled with cat litter. The forge is outside, so when we’re done, let it cool, clean out the clinkers, close the door and the weather is kept out of it. It’s miles ahead of the bucket forge concept. See if you can hookup with a blacksmith organization near you. Time with other smiths will make a big difference with the learning curve on everything. Enjoy!

FYI, Indiana Blacksmith Association (IBA) conference is coming up the next weekend at Tippon County Fairgrounds. Check out their website. I plan to be there Saturday, June 1st! Not sure where your at in IN, but they have satellite groups all around the state.

Thanks alexandr! Truly an inspiration!

Alexandr, those lamps are beautiful. Any chance you could post a picture showing more detail of the lower portion of the post. I’m very intrigued by the design! -David

Speaking of the IBA, there is the St Joe Valley Forges satellite branch near you and they meet the 4th Saturday of the month. Not familiar with that branch, but if they’re anything like the group at Vernon, give them a shout. I’ve personally enjoyed every moment around the IBA members I’ve met and learned a lot! Check the IBA site for details.