How to Forge the Old Fashioned Way

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Start your forge by acquiring a coal forge to heat the metal.

   You will need the following tools and safety equipment.
   
   An anvil with stand, various sized hammers, tongs and pliers, leather apron, specialist gloves and a water bucket.
   
   Additional tools can be added later as required.
   
   Any ball peen hammer over 2lb in weight is sufficient to begin with, there are many online sites offering products at reasonable prices.
   
   Do not use a claw hammer.
   
   Before committing yourself to expensive purchases visit a working forge and ask for advise from a seasoned blacksmith.
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   Step 2: A safe working environment is very important as you are handling hot metal and working with hot coals.

   ,,,,,, This can be anything from something as simple as a small knife to something as complicated as a classic Victorian chandelier. , Your local supplier will help you choose the most suitable material. ,, Don't wait too long otherwise it will start to spark which will cause the metal to flake. , You may need to heat the work piece a number of times depending on the amount of detail required. ,, No point in complaining about it, cut a new piece and start again.
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   Step 3: Ensure that you have adequate working space and have a clear escape route in the event of fire.

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   Step 4: Keep a fully stocked first aid box in your workshop.

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   Step 5: Keep the floor space around your anvil clear as this is your working space.

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   Step 6: Begin with a simple project to get accustomed to the correct heat requirements and the use of your hammer and anvil.

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   Step 7: Have a look around your house and make a list of items that you can make that would be of use.

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   Step 8: Decide what you are going to make.

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   Step 9: Determine what metal you're going to use for your project.

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    Step 10: When you are ready to begin

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    Step 11: bring your fire up to the correct temperature and insert the work piece into the fire bed.

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    Step 12: Heat the work piece until the metal turns a bright red color.

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    Step 13: As soon as the work piece has been removed from the fire; use your hammer to start working it into the desired shape.

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    Step 14: When the piece is done; use a wire brush to clean the metal before dousing in the water bucket.

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    Step 15: Avoid distractions; many quality work pieces have been lost in the fire.

Detailed Guide

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