At first glance, blacksmithing may not seem like the most beginner-friendly hobby or profession, but don’t be discouraged. Just like any other career or hobby, blacksmithing requires training and experience in order to be successful at it. If you are new to the topic, here are some tips for what to know as a beginner to blacksmithing to get you started.
Know the Jargon
First and foremost, if you want to get started in the blacksmithing world, you’ve got to know the lingo. You won’t know the kinds of tools and materials you need if you’re not familiar with what they’re called. Familiarize yourself with the basic blacksmithing terms, tools, and materials so that you can be prepared to interact with them in a workshop setting.
Have the Basic Tools
Now that you know the terminology around the workshop, you can put this knowledge into practice and start collecting the materials you need. Look into where you can find the basic tools for intro-level blacksmiths, such as the forge, anvil, tongs, crucible, and a heat source such as coal or gas. You’ll also need to decide what metals you want to shape. For example, most blacksmiths consider mild steel to be a good choice for beginners to work with.
Get Involved With the Community
If you still have questions about getting started in blacksmithing, seek out help from the community. Reach out to a local or online blacksmithing group where people share their experiences. You may also want to take a local course on smithing or try a blacksmithing internship or job shadowing opportunity. All of these options can help build your resume and confidence before starting to work at your own forge.
Follow Safety Rules
Blacksmithing is a potentially dangerous craft if you don’t use caution. This is especially true for beginners. Make sure you spend just as much time researching safety precautions as you do researching blacksmithing terms and tools. Always use the proper safety equipment when working in the shop, such as gloves, safety glasses, and the proper clothing. Beginners won’t be as familiar with the tools and conditions of blacksmithing, which is why they should always compensate with the proper safety steps.
Practice these tips on what to know as a beginner to blacksmithing to help you get started on the right foot for your new career path or hobby.
