Blacksmithing

If you're past the 'what is a hammer?' stage but still struggle with inconsistent heats, warped steel, or projects that just don't look right, this is the book for you. Blacksmithing: A Bench Reference for Forge Setup and 25 Projects cuts through the noise and gives you the exact numbers and procedures that make the difference between a good piece and a great one. From choosing the right forge and fuel to calibrating your anvil and hammer, you'll set up a workspace that produces reliable results every time.

Inside, you'll find 25 projects specifically chosen to develop core skills—each with a complete parts list, step-by-step instructions, and success criteria. You'll learn to control your forge temperature within a 50°F window, understand the critical color transitions for different steel grades, and master the hammer blows that shape metal without overworking it. The book is designed to lie flat on your bench, with laminated pages that resist soot and heat, so you can follow along as you work.

Beyond the projects, this reference includes troubleshooting tables for common failures like scale buildup, cracked edges, and uneven tapers, plus a quick-lookup appendix of steel types, forge settings, and conversion charts. Whether you're making your first set of tongs or a decorative leaf, this book ensures you're not just copying a shape—you're learning the principles that let you create anything. If you're ready to stop guessing and start forging with confidence, this is your bench companion.