ViciousTheJester

So, it's been ages since I've gotten anything substantial done in metal.  After class I went back to work full time, and the shop I had access to isn't open good hours for me now.  I need to get a better anvil, get a forge, and get a couple more tools so I can get back into moving some metal.  

For the forge, I actually have some of the more difficult parts to get.  I have a forge body (14" diameter steel pipe, 14" long) and a stand/cart to put it on, but I need to get burners added to it, and get the "plumbing" done for the propane.  I expect that'll cost me another $250-$300.  

A better anvil is just a matter of finding something used within a reasonable distance from my house.  I have a 135lb anvil now, but it's seen better days.  It's gotta be at least 100 years old.  It's got some serious sway.  

I'm also hoping to pick up a vise or two (one for my workbench, the other to mount on my other stump).  I have a friend that might have a piece of scrap metal around that'll make a lovely dishing swage/tool.  Again, I just need to get off my ass and go over and get it from him.

Last class I learned MIG welding.  I was a little intimidated before I started.  Once I got a chance to try it some, it's lots of fun.  I like this.  

I was also working on cleaning up my "Wave" to start welding it, and I took it to a bench grinder with a wire brush wheel on it.  Up until this point, I had been thinking I would paint it.  5 minutes at the wire brush wheel, taking off the fire-scale, and I've absolutely changed my intention there.  It's staying as bright and shiny metal as I can keep it.  I'm looking forward to finishing it.  Hopefully, by the end of this week.

So, I've always been able to draw passably.  I can draw realistic stuff pretty well.  If I take my time, I can draw some things exceptionally well (someday maybe I'll scan and post my self-portrait that I drew for drawing class).  I've tried painting.  I can do paint-by-number, or even do a good job with painting miniatures.  I'm horrible with water-colors or trying to paint something from scratch.  I've done a bit with ceramics.  I'm not bad with ceramics, but it just doesn't interest me enough.  To many steps that require lots of waiting and have to be done by someone else.

Enter metal forging.  I'm taking it this semester in college.  I've found my media.  It's awesome.  I look forward to class so much.  I'm looking forward to learning more.  I went and bought a 125lb. anvil today (used), and have bought a number of hammers as well.  I may even get to make my very own forge in class.