Wim

The other thing to consider Artie, is once you have got it nice and hot, what are you gonna do with it. You need a big hammer, and a buddy to sledge for you, and all the tools, fullers, cutters, in other words all your ducks in a row. My forge works very well, I can get 1" material up to welding temperature, but 2" round to make a hardy took me ages, and then I didn't have the right tools and a sledge to do the operations. You could cut the thick section with a grinder into thinner material first. Let me know if you ve come right. Wim:)

Nobody ever heard of skyhooks? They've been around for years!!! I always keeps a couple in the back of my car, just in case.;)

On the 1st of May, a holiday in South Africa, The Oranjehof Old Age Home in Kempton Park, Gauteng, South Africa is hosting once again its Dutch Flea Market, with all kinds of Dutch delicacies to enjoy, beer to drink, and all kinds of people sell or exibit their homecraft work. As during the last year market, I will give a demo on the great art of blacksmithing, at least show the little bit I have mastered in the last 2 years. I can do with some hands, my forge can accomodate 3 smiths, if we bring a few anvils, it 'll be more fun than sweating on my own. Get your wife and kids involved, make some fudge or cake to sell on the side line. Offcourse you can bring forged stuff to sell as well. If you're interested post a reply here, with some ideas on how you can contribute. I will announce more info, and give a route description within the next two weeks. Wim.

After forging in full African sunshine on a number of occasions I find myself with increasing desire to build myself a afdakkie (roof). When your DG starts confusing you with the vine ripened tomatoes she just bought at the local fruit and veg, you know you have to make a plan...

Here finally some pictures of a great day at the Vuka school for the deaf. Young and old, Novice and wizard, it was fantastic, Paola, thanks for your wonderful work, organizing everything. Enjoy it, Wim. Pictures are also posted on the Gallery/Blacksmithing events/2007/Vuka design Sparks with Light

The preparation of the pieces to be joined is almost half the work done. My first try only joined half the bar, and because I did not upset the pieces enough I was allready down to my final cross section. I find it a lot of work just to get the fire prepared for welding, a deep fire and a minimum airflow. Another tip I was given to preheat the anvil a bit. My anvil (202kg) is too heavy for my forge, I m afraid. Besides it will crush the coal to powder!:confused: That's why I prefer joining by rivets or bands.

Hi Bob, Any news on that heat treatment oven you are busy building. Give me a shout if you need more help, Wim

Here are some pictures from the Wheels on the Vaal 2007 event.