SAFETY

EYES: - minimum poly-carbonate lens with side shields, dark lenses for welding
-HIGHLY RECOMMEND the use of special 'Didymium' lenses for extended use
Available through : Nortell Manufacturing / 2040 Ellesmere Rd unit 18 / Scarborough M1H 3B6 / (416) 438-3325. plasic frames about $65 / metal about $100

FUMES:- excellent ventilation required to reduce exposure to sulfur di-oxide fumes, ash, dust
-need a good passive or forced draw system

HEARING: - recommend the use of at least insert type ear plug in lead (right) ear.

JOINTS:- to avoid possible joint and tendon damage, always warm up, stop when tired, work loose, avoid or 'break up' heavy work
- for extended work consider buying a forearm brace.

OTHER:- clothing should be natural fibers, leather apron should be worn
- boots should be steel toe, pants worn over tops
- use of gloves is not generally recommended
-care should be taken to maintain body fluid levels

REFERANCES:

The Edge of the Anvil - Jack Andrews, Rodale Press, Emmaus Pa
Probably the best all round guide for the beginner, covers tools, set up, practical exercises, metallurgy

Decorative and Sculptural Ironwork - Donna Meilach, Crown Publishers, New York
A good survey of the current art metalsmith movement, has step-by-step photos of various techniques

Coal - smithing coal should be bituminous coal, averaging from pea to walnut size, containing 10 - 15% dust (or fines) and as free of sulfur as possible.
Available at Schaner Fuel, 49 spring St, PO box 173, St Jacobs, Ont, 519-664-2430

Centaur Forge - bx 340, 117 N. Spring St, Burlington Wis, 414-763-9175
A complete selection of new blacksmithing & farriers tools, equipment, books.
Send for the catalogue. On line at http://www.anvilfire.com/centaur/


More extensive training programs are available at the Wareham Forge. 'Basic Blacksmithing' is an 18 hour hands on course held in early April, June, September and October each year. Course fee is $250, includes lunches and all materials, each session is limited to four students. There is also a five day course. "Introduction to Artistic Metalwork" held in January.
For more information contact the Wareham Forge, RR 2 Proton Stn, N0C 1LO,
519 -923-9219 / courses@warehamforge.ca


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