Anvil Stand Build

If you are looking to start forging one of the hardest things to acquire is a good anvil, but then when you get one, what about a stand?  Here is a really affordable anvil option with an equally affordable anvil stand for any type of anvil.  Here is the quick list of what you'll need to get the anvil going.

The measurements are set for a 10.5 inch length of railroad track.  You will need to adjust the measurements based on your height, the heigh of the anvil and the type of anvil you need.  For example you may need 8 x 24" high 4x4's as opposed to 6 depending on the base of the anvil.  So just bare this in mind as you look over this article.  

What I saw in my head and then put to paper (actually a graphics program, because I don't draw so well), was the below figure.  You can see a side and front view.  This was basically what I envisioned to create this anvil stand.     

Pics below of the process:  

In order to get your anvil height along with the stand, you need to take some measurements first.  In order to properly measure what your anvil height should be, I recommend getting a tape measure or some way to mark on a wall where you hand holding a hammer falls normally at your side.   Mark on the wall and then measure from the ground to your mark, or if you use a measuring stick to see where your hammer is held will tell you the heigh you need to make your anvil and stand.  Next, just measure how high your anvil is.  For example, if your hammer at your side measure 34", then your anvil height needs to be 34".  So if you measure your anvil height, let's say it is 10", then you need to cut your lengths to 24".  Why?  Because 34" minus 10" (anvil height) equals 24" 4x4 length.

After cutting the 4x4 to the desired length, the initial gluing starts with three lengths to make two rows (front and back)

Prior to gluing both sides together, I drill the three lengths and added the threaded rod in the center to help stabilize them.  Then I glue the two - three lengths together and let that dry.  Once dry, I screw the top and bottom center length rods on the front and back.  

The glue acts and threaded rod together make the stand in my opinion more stable. Once done with the gluing and threading, I sand the top and bottom of the stand to make sure it is as flush as possible so there is no movement.

After sanding, I take some indoor/outdoor calk, doesn't really matter what kind, it will help deaden the ring.  This is not a requirement, but it helps one stabilize the anvil, and keep it quiet.  It will not be enough to stabilize the anvil, which is why for this project I use the perforated steel bar.  I cut those into 16" pieces and use the lag bolts to secure them and the anvil in on the sides of the stand.

It really is that simple.  To do four of them took me two days, one day to do the first.  And make sure it was how I wanted, and then day to to complete the other three. So far after testing all four, and having students use them, they are extremely effective anvil stands.  Hope this helps you in your journey to blacksmithing and not having to spend a ton of money. 

Forced Air Upgrade for the Gas Forge

 

For about the last year I have been wanting to make this video/article.  Forced Air upgrade to my gas forge has been a game changer in getting more work done, more efficiently, and cheaply.  

 

I ordered the majority of the parts off of Amazon, but you can get them at most any hardware store.  You just need the following items (does not have to be exact):

3-Way Air Vent Duct Connector (High Temperature Resistance/Flame retardant) - I chose a Y connecter that had dampers so I could control the air flow between the high and low settings of the dryer.  Plus if I only use one burner with I do the majority of the time, I can shut off all air flow to the second burner.

2" ID to 3.0" OD Exhaust Reducer Adapter Stainless Steel 2PCS - I went with stainless steel as they will be touching my burners and 2 inches ID fits almost perfect, just enough room to easily slide on and off.

3-Inch by 2-Inch Adapter - this piece connected my hair dryer to the Y connecter.

Flexible 3 Inch Aluminum Ducting Dryer Vent Hose for HVAC - There may be better vent hose, as I have already burned a hole in mine from it getting too close to the forge body.  I just used some vent-tape to patch it up.

Appropriate sized duct clamps, I ordered the hose that came with two clamps, and I used that closest to the burners.  I used gorilla tape for the Y connector and hair dryer since they are not being exposed to extreme temps.

Any cheap hair dryer will work.  I have seen people use leaf blowers, small bbq/fan blowers, etc.  There is no specific requirement to use a hair dryer.

You can obviously choose other fittings for your forge, this worked well for mine.  I typically get double the amount of gas use when using the forced air as it, allows me to run hotter and longer at lower PSI for the gas.  I can even get my forge up to welding temps way faster.  

Total cost should be anywhere from $35 to $50 depending on what parts/upgrades you choose.  I hope this helps you in your blacksmithing journey.     

The Forge Awakens: An Introduction to Blacksmithing's Fiery Fun

Welcome to the exhilarating world of blacksmithing! Get ready to unleash your inner metal maestro and dive headfirst into the art of shaping red-hot iron with hammer and anvil. In this introductory guide, we'll walk you through the basics of blacksmithing, some of the quirky terminology to the essential tools that will turn you into a forging force to be reckoned with. So buckle up, grab your safety goggles, and let's forge ahead!

Demystifying the Blacksmithing Lingo:

Before we embark on this sizzling journey, let's demystify some of the quirky terminology that accompanies the craft. From the moment you step into the forge, you'll encounter words like "quench," "tongs," and "tempering" (Harries & Heer, 1993).  Don't worry; we won't leave you in the dark. Check out our sources below for a handy glossary of blacksmithing terms that will have you sounding like a seasoned smith in no time!

The Fiery Arsenal: 5 Basic Tools for Blacksmithing:

Now that you're familiar with the lingo, let's dive into the essential tools that will set your blacksmithing journey ablaze. These tools are the bread and butter of every blacksmith's arsenal, and they'll have you shaping metal like a pro in no time:

• Anvil: The rock-solid foundation of any blacksmith's workshop. This hefty chunk of metal is where the magic happens, as you shape and mold your red-hot creations.
  
  
  
  
• Forge: The heart and soul of your blacksmithing operation. This inferno of blazing heat provides the intense temperatures needed to soften and work the metal.  It can just also refer to the entire blacksmith shop.
  
  
  
  
• Hammer: Your trusty sidekick in the blacksmithing adventure. Whether it's a ball-peen, cross-peen, or rounding hammer, this tool will help you shape and refine your creations with each mighty strike.
  
  
  
  
• Tongs: The mighty pincers of the blacksmithing world. These specialized gripping tools allow you to handle the scorching hot metal with precision and finesse, ensuring your safety and control.
  
  
  
  
• Vise: The blacksmith's helping hand. This sturdy tool secures your workpiece, providing stability and allowing you to focus your hammer blows with accuracy.

Congratulations! You've just taken your first steps into the fiery realm of blacksmithing. Armed with newfound knowledge of blacksmithing terminology and the essential tools, you're ready to start your forging adventures. Continue reading this series, as we will go further into the realms of blacksmithing, increasing your terminology and knowledge to create!  Remember, blacksmithing is not only a craft but an art form that takes time, practice, and a dash of creativity. So, don your apron, pick up your hammer, and let the sparks fly as you embark on a journey filled with fire, metal, and endless possibilities!

Works Cited:

-Harries, B. & Heer, B. (1993).  Basic Blacksmithing:  An introduction to tool making with locally available materials.  London, UK:  Intermediate Technology Publications

**Disclaimer: Please exercise caution and prioritize safety when engaging in blacksmithing activities. Always wear appropriate protective gear, follow proper safety guidelines, and seek professional guidance when necessary.