If you have ever watched a metal craftsman (or a blacksmith, as we used to call them) in action, you’ve probably stood in awe as the s/he carefully heats a piece of iron or other form of metal in a charcoal forge before placing it on an anvil. S/he then proceeds to hammer it into all kinds of unique and often beautiful shapes. It looks pretty simple. And the blacksmith, or any proficient metal craftsman, would probably tell you that it’s not that difficult to hammer & shape things from red hot metal (mostly because the metal is quite fluid when it’s that hot). S/he would be right in saying that it’s not terribly difficult- generally all it takes to work with metal is a small amount of knowledge and some solid practice. But everyone has to start somewhere. Which is why this article is perfect for you if you’re interested in learning some easy metal crafts. Keep reading and you’ll learn a little bit about metalworking as well as a few ideas of crafts to start with.
What exactly does metalworking entail?
Metalworking is the craft and practice of working with different types of metal in order to create structures, artwork, home décor or even machine parts. Metalworking covers anything from building ships to bridges and oil refineries to delicate jewelry and other instruments. It had its beginnings thousands of years in the past. Early humankind used different kinds of metal ores to make tools and adornments. Today metalworking is an irreplaceable craft in modern society. Making crafts out of metal can be a very enjoyable, interesting experience.
So where should you begin? One type of metal craft that almost all of us have participated in at one point is metal cut outs. Think back to elementary school- remember making Christmas tree ornaments or Hanukah decorations out of old pie tins? Yes, that is metal working. Granted, it’s a very simplified form, but it is still a metal craft nonetheless. If it makes you feel better, it is possible to cut yourself on the sharp edges of the cut out (though not terribly likely). They are especially good for children who are interested in learning a new craft. Metal cut outs are a great place to begin.
Another type of metal craft that is simple to start with and fun to do is metal wire votive holders. They can be a lovely addition to your home décor and are easy to make. They require a small amount of supplies and about 10 straightforward steps to making them. You can find instructions for making votive holders by doing an internet search for “metal wire votive holders.”
Some people enjoy making charms or figures out of metal. This can be a bit more difficult, but is still fairly simple and rewarding. Metal charms that you have made yourself make excellent gifts for friends or family. This leads us to another metal craft that beginners can easily learn how to do: metal casting. As with any craft, as long as you have an imagination and determination, you can learn to cast metal. Foundry work is basically using a timber or metal pattern to create a cavity in a two-part sand mould, and then carefully pouring molten metal into the mould cavity. The more you can learn about metal casting, the better your skills & work will become.
To find out more about the types of metal crafts that are good for beginners, go to your neighborhood’s library or bookstore. You should be able to find a selection of books on the easy metal crafts. Also, try doing search on online book stores or any other site that might sell craft books.