August 13, 2025Aug 13 Hello IFI and all its members, my name is Gayle Coombs I live in Indiana near the Indiana Ohio line, I’m just restarting my journey into blacksmithing and bladesmithing I actually started about 5 years ago, my house caught on fire (not due to forging) and I cut all the tendons on the back of my right hand which is my dominant hand, so had about a year off while I learned how to use my hand then had to move. So I recently (within the last year) started to try to get back at it. I’m using the blade smith forge (I think it’s called) from atlas tool and knife and I have their bigger anvil that they sell as well. I’m interested in learning tool making, axe making, knifes, swords and just metal manipulation in general. It’s nice to meet everyone and I would like to say thank you upfront with all the help that I’ve already gotten by reading your posts and comments as well as future questions I will have. Hope everyone has a great day and is able to get out and forge some
August 13, 2025Aug 13 Welcome from the Ozark mountains The best advice I can give is to find a Blacksmithing club and attend some meetings. I'm pretty sure there are a couple not far from you. Maybe this one. Nothing like meeting fellow smith's in person. https://www.iforgeiron.com/forum/235-northwest-ohio-blacksmiths/ I can’t control the wind. All I can do is adjust my sails. ~Semper Paratus~
August 13, 2025Aug 13 Author Yes this is actually what I’ve been looking for as well so thank you, I’ve met one guy from around where I live that makes knives but haven’t gotten to setup a good time to make it to his shop yet hopefully soon if I can ever get a day off work. But for now I will continue to resort to IFI and YouTube for my learnings until I can meetup with some people.
August 14, 2025Aug 14 Welcome aboard! If you haven’t had a chance yet, look up the Indiana Blacksmith Association (indianablacksmithing.com). There is a satellite group that meets in Cedar Grove on the 2nd Saturday of every month. (The same day the group I’m part of meets in Vernon.) It shouldn’t be too long of a drive… Attending the hammer-in’s and reading here has really helped me over the years. Keep it fun, David
August 14, 2025Aug 14 Author Goods, thank you sir I appreciate that. I use to spend some time down by Vernon. BillyBones howdy hope y’all are doing well today so far
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