new seeking advice

[learning78]

Hi I am new to blacksmithing not new to working with metal have been in the steel fabrication and erection business over 15 years.  I am wanting to learn how to make knives out of cable currently i am working with strand jack cable.  Eventually i would like to make damscus knives.  Do not have an anvil so I am using a grade 36 one inch thick welding table i do have a coal fired buffoloe forge.  Would really like to find someone in southern Illinois that i could help watch and learn from thinking i could learn faster from someone that knew what they were doing instead of my own trial and error 

[Frosty]

Welcome aboard, glad to have you. If you'll put your general location in your header you'll be surprised at how many blacksmiths live within easy visiting distance. It'll also save us old farts from having to rely on our memories when traveling in your area if we want a snack or spot to nap.

 

There's a whole section of IFI dedicated to blacksmithing organizations and their locations. I'd post the name but I'm lucky I remember my own some days. IFI also has a well populated and highly regarded bladesmithing section. See above about the name. Not to worry a quick site search or a little patience while someone here posts more info and you'll be in contact with the real deal.

 

Not to worry, an anvil is literally something heavy and hard to beat hot iron on. RR rail either on end, right side up or welded in a 3 rail stack make fine anvils, as do any number of heavy iron/steel objects. Forklift forks make dandy anvils, train couplers are proven expedients and Brian Brazeal makes outstanding anvils from plate. There's topics about anvils, making anvils, finding anvil expedients and finding anvils for sale.

 

Again, good to see you and don't forget we LOVE pics.

 

Frosty The lucky