About Metalworking
My definition of metalworking is “working with metal”, not necessarily all aspects of everything that can be done using all different kinds of metal. I guess that narrows it down to making things out of metal that results in a product to enhance my life as “art” or something that performs a function. I view metalworking as a natural extension of woodworking, or vice versa if you are a metal worker. The primary differences are the tools used to cut the raw materials and the “glue” that sticks them together. In both cases, you end up with a piece of art or something functional to enhance your life. Investing in tools to feed my metalworking hobby has the same ancillary benefits as woodworking tools, namely to help myself, friends and neighbors repair something that breaks. For me, all this “work” is enjoyment so it’s mutually beneficial for family and friends. Occasionally I make a dollar or two so that’s nice as well.
The scope of metalworking is very broad and the same is true for woodworking. I cannot learn everything about all materials and techniques, so I learn as I go depending on the task at hand. For example, I don’t weld cast iron but, if I had to fix a broken casting, I would try to learn enough about it to attempt a successful repair. If I didn’t feel confident, I wouldn’t do it. I recently took a beginner’s welding class at a local technical college to learn techniques about welding even though I have welded a bunch of stuff in the past. I knew most of the information presented in class but it was still valuable because it gave me confidence going forward. I can confidently stick and MIG weld mild steel, cut with a plasma torch and work with Oxy-Acetylene equipment. Am I an expert at any of this? – no, but for me, the journey is rewarding. I want to get better at working with thin metal, brazing, soldering, and working with Aluminum. Although I am interested in blacksmithing, I have to limit my endeavors based on budget and space.
When the technical college instructor asked why we were taking the class, I responded that I was a tool junkie and really like tools that make “smoke, fire and noise”. My classmates were impressed! Yes, that’s part of it but it’s necessary to obtain the final product, whatever it may be. All kidding aside, I take safety very seriously and take all precautions never to jeopardize myself, my equipment, home or family. I hope that you find some of my metalworking blogs informative and entertaining.
