The Home Blacksmith

Synopsis

As more and more people join the do-it-yourself revolution, they are breathing new life into many time-honored skills and crafts. Blacksmithing is among the trades that are enjoying a resurgence for both practical and artistic uses, yet there is not an abundance of readily accessible information available to beginning blacksmiths to help them get started and understand the craft. Author Ryan Ridgway, a veterinarian and blacksmith with more than fifteen years of metalworking experience, hopes to fill that void with this comprehensive volume geared toward answering the many questions that new blacksmiths often have. By explaining the physics of moving metal, the different styles of anvils and forges, and alternative fuel sources, Ridgway sets his book apart from less detailed volumes. Forty practical, easy-to-follow projects are presented, showing aspiring blacksmiths how to make tools, such as hammers and chisels; farm implements, such as gate latches and hoof picks; and items for home use, including drawer pulls and candle holders. Inside The Home Blacksmith: The evolution of blacksmithing around the world and the differences between the tools specific to each region The behavior of heated metal and the science of metalworking Setting up a shop safely and economically The heart of your shop--the anvil and forge--and the other essential tools Working with different types of steel, including how to salvage steel for different uses Techniques from beginning to advanced Step-by-step instructions for forty blacksmithing projects: tools and other implements as well as decorative pieces for personal use or sale

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction to Blacksmithing

This chapter provides an overview of blacksmithing as a hobby, including the history, tools, and basic techniques involved.

Real Example: A beginner blacksmith could learn the basic techniques of forging by creating a simple hook or nail.

Chapter 2: The Forge

This chapter discusses the different types of forges and fuels used in blacksmithing, as well as how to set up and maintain a forge.

Real Example: A backyard blacksmith might build a simple propane forge using a steel pipe and a burner.

Chapter 3: Basic Blacksmithing Tools

This chapter introduces the essential tools used in blacksmithing, including hammers, tongs, anvils, and chisels.

Real Example: A beginner blacksmith could purchase a basic set of tools, including a forge hammer, tongs, and a small anvil.

Chapter 4: Fire Management

This chapter teaches how to effectively control the fire in the forge to achieve the desired temperature for forging different materials.

Real Example: A blacksmith working with high-carbon steel might adjust the fire to a hotter temperature to get it to the proper forging heat.

Chapter 5: Forging Basic Shapes

This chapter provides step-by-step instructions for forging common blacksmithing shapes, such as tapers, scrolls, and curves.

Real Example: A blacksmith could practice forging a simple scroll by hammering a heated steel rod over a round forming block.

Chapter 6: Heat Treating

This chapter explains the process of heat treating steel to achieve specific properties, such as hardness, toughness, and flexibility.

Real Example: A blacksmith making a knife blade could heat treat the blade by heating it to a critical temperature and then quenching it in oil.

Chapter 7: Joining Techniques

This chapter covers methods for joining pieces of metal, including welding, riveting, and pinning.

Real Example: A blacksmith could weld two pieces of steel together by heating them to a high temperature and hammering them together.

Chapter 8: Finishing Techniques

This chapter discusses techniques for finishing forged items, including cleaning, polishing, and applying protective coatings.

Real Example: A blacksmith could grind and polish a forged knife blade to give it a smooth, professional finish.

Chapter 9: Project Ideas

This chapter provides inspiration for blacksmithing projects, from basic items like hooks and nails to more advanced projects like knives and furniture.

Real Example: A blacksmith could create a custom-forged fire poker, complete with decorative details and a handle made from exotic wood.

Chapter 10: Safety Considerations

This chapter addresses safety precautions that should be taken when blacksmithing, including proper clothing, eye protection, and ventilation.

Real Example: A blacksmith might wear heat-resistant gloves, safety glasses, and a leather apron to protect themselves from sparks and hot metal.