Blacksmith Shop Wisdom
There are too many irons in the fire. Multi-tasking does not work in the blacksmith shop.
There is no shame in the slack tub. If you get burned, and you will, get to the tub. Stay there. For as long as it takes.
Fire is a tool. If I had a penny for every time I said "heat it up" I would probably be in a warm climate on a beach with an adult beverage.
Blacksmiths are naughty on purpose. Who doesn't want coal in their stocking?
It does not have to be an elephant. It just has to look like one.
Never fear competition. If someone wants to learn blacksmithing, teach them. You will accomplish two things. First, you will uphold the standard of the trade by teaching an apprentice proper techniques. Second, if someone tries blacksmithing and does not pursue it they will at least have an appreciation of the craft and we commonly refer to these people as customers.
What is a blacksmith's favorite beer? The one he is holding.
Hold your tongue right. It is amazing how many things are influenced by proper tongue positioning.
Test pieces. Many projects require test pieces to determine stock size and forging sequence. Take notes. Two years from now when you need to incorporate that test element into another project the notes you take today will be cash in the bank.
Have fun. We only get one chance at this ride so have a good time.
There are too many irons in the fire. Multi-tasking does not work in the blacksmith shop.
There is no shame in the slack tub. If you get burned, and you will, get to the tub. Stay there. For as long as it takes.
Fire is a tool. If I had a penny for every time I said "heat it up" I would probably be in a warm climate on a beach with an adult beverage.
Blacksmiths are naughty on purpose. Who doesn't want coal in their stocking?
It does not have to be an elephant. It just has to look like one.
Never fear competition. If someone wants to learn blacksmithing, teach them. You will accomplish two things. First, you will uphold the standard of the trade by teaching an apprentice proper techniques. Second, if someone tries blacksmithing and does not pursue it they will at least have an appreciation of the craft and we commonly refer to these people as customers.
What is a blacksmith's favorite beer? The one he is holding.
Hold your tongue right. It is amazing how many things are influenced by proper tongue positioning.
Test pieces. Many projects require test pieces to determine stock size and forging sequence. Take notes. Two years from now when you need to incorporate that test element into another project the notes you take today will be cash in the bank.
Have fun. We only get one chance at this ride so have a good time.