Blacksmithing is among the time-honored trades that are enjoying a resurgence as more and more people join the "do-it-yourself" revolution and explore traditional crafting for both practical and artistic reasons. Author Ryan Ridgway, a veterinarian and seasoned blacksmith with more than 15 years under his belt, fills in gaps left by other blacksmithing manuals as he traces the history of the craft, discusses how blacksmithing tools and techniques evolved differently around the world, and provides readers with a foundation in the science of metalworking. He then presents 40 projects, accompanied by detailed step-by-step instructions and brilliant color photographs from his own blacksmith shop, featuring useful and decorative items for the home, yard, and farm. A glossary of terms used throughout the book acquaints readers with blacksmithing lingo.

Contents include:

• Introduction
• Glossary
• 1: Understanding Blacksmithing Basics
• 2: Setting Up Shop
• 3: Steel Types and Heat-Treating
• 4: Basic Blacksmithing Techniques
• 5: Advanced Blacksmithing Techniques
• 6: Making Your Own Tools
• 7: Projects for the Farm
• 8: Projects for the Home
• 9: Selling Your Items
• Acknowledgments
• Resources
• Index
• Photo Credits
• About the Author

222 pages, colored photographs.

ISBN: 978-1-4971-0126-5