Blacksmithed Hardware

Last summer I was invited to a blacksmithing class in NM GO HERE & HERE .  I don't think I ever talked about a few of the things I made.  Blacksmithing is awesome, however it is just to labor intensive for me and I'm not set up for what it takes to make it a lucrative business.  I did learn some easy techniques for making a few items that I could do later if needed.  I loved twisting rods and making them so much more interesting, like these hooks ~ they were the first thing I made.

Believe it or not, it takes awhile to learn just to make a pointed end on a square bar.  There is a lot of heating up to a red hot stage so pounding is easier.

After learning a few of these techniques we were off to make something on our own.  It took me all day, but I made a huge handle for a gate that someday I will make.  I was so happy to walk away with something that started out as a 1/4 inch square rod and turn it into a beautiful iron sculpture and an experience I will never forget, especially every time I open that gate or door this handle will go on. I love those memories that surround you of something special.

 My final piece was something I had seen our instructor make out of a piece of steel pipe ~ it was a hummingbird.  I could never have imagined that by pounding a piece of pipe in many different angles would produce the shape of a hummingbird, but sure enough it worked!  It was impressive to watch and amazing to see the transformation.  In order to do this you needed a power hammer, alot of heat and a continuous motion and attention to where the hammer was slammin' down.  I didn't get mine finished and will add the wings and shape the tail feathers at some point, but you can see the results.

I'll always treasure that month and remember that stepping out of your comfort zone always gains you insight.