The Backyard Blacksmith: Traditional Techniques for the Modern Smith

Lorelei Sims
Quarry Books (2006)
ISBN 1592532519
Reviewed by Debra Gaynor for Reader Views (1/07)

With use of modern equipment and traditional blacksmithing techniques you too can create works of art.  Heat and hammer work together along with controlled movement to produce works of art.  Lorelei Sims finds the “repetitive motions such as tapering, flattening, scrolling and texturing have actually become meditative.”  “My goal is to provide knowledge, insight, and inspiration to enthusiasts interested in implementing their own backyard smithy.”

Chapter one discusses appropriate site, setting up your workspace and safety.  Ms Sims goes in great detail concerning safety.  Burns, even minor should be held under cold water for several minutes but do not apply ice to the burn.  You’ll need a first aid kit, hose and fire extinguisher.  You should never “allow others inside your work triangle. All visitors should wear safety glasses.  Good lighting is must.”   Most of the precautions were common sense but today not everyone has common sense.

Chapter two begins the discussion of equipment.  The book continues with the discussion of iron, coal and tending the fire.  She discusses how to use the tools.  Each chapter has inserts of “Tricks of the Trade” and “safety Tips.”  Techniques are offered for assembling several pieces of forged iron. 

“This book is for the person who has always wanted to try blacksmithing, but has never had the opportunity.  It is my desire to present the basic tool usage and forging techniques in the simplest manner possible.  As you become more knowledgeable of the terminology, tools, and procedures, there will be more resource material for you to grow with.”

“The Backyard Blacksmith” by Lorelei Sims is a must for anyone interested in blacksmithing.  While the information contained with in the covers is invaluable to the blacksmith, my favorite part was the photos of her creations.  She offers instructions for a door pull that is beautiful, as was the candleholder.  There’s a doorknocker and gate pull as well as other projects.  Ms Sims is a very gifted person.  I highly recommend this book to those interested in blacksmithing.

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