Silversmithing is the craft of shaping and working with silver to create functional and decorative objects. It’s a metalworking technique requiring skill and precision. Key Characteristics / Core Concepts Metal shaping: Techniques include hammering, forging, casting, and soldering. Design and artistry: Silversmiths often incorporate artistic elements into their work. Soldering and joining: Connecting different pieces … Read more
Sheet metal work is the art and craft of forming metal sheets into various shapes and structures. It involves cutting, bending, and joining sheet metal to create functional and aesthetically pleasing products. Key Characteristics / Core Concepts Material Selection: Choosing the right type of sheet metal (e.g., steel, aluminum, stainless steel) based on the project’s … Read more
Metalworking is the process of shaping or forming metal into useful objects. It encompasses a wide range of techniques and processes used to create everything from simple tools to complex machinery. Key Characteristics / Core Concepts Material Manipulation: Metalworking involves altering the physical properties of metals through various techniques. Shape Modification: It focuses on changing … Read more
Ironworking is the art and craft of making objects from wrought iron, a malleable form of iron that can be shaped by hammering and heating. It’s a skilled trade with a rich history, requiring both strength and precision. Key Characteristics / Core Concepts Forging: Shaping iron by hammering it while hot. Welding: Joining pieces of … Read more
Hobby machining is the practice of using machine tools, such as lathes, mills, and drills, to create parts or objects in a home workshop setting. It’s a rewarding pastime that combines engineering principles with craftsmanship. Key Characteristics / Core Concepts Utilizes small-scale machine tools designed for home use. Often involves working with metals (e.g., aluminum, … Read more
Goldsmithing is the art and craft of working with gold to create jewelry, tableware, and other decorative or functional objects. It involves shaping, forming, and embellishing gold using various techniques. Key Characteristics / Core Concepts Metalworking Expertise: Goldsmiths possess a deep understanding of gold’s properties and how to manipulate it. Artistic Design: Creating aesthetically pleasing … Read more
Forging is a manufacturing process involving the shaping of metal using localized compressive forces. It’s a way to create strong, durable metal parts by hammering or pressing heated metal into a desired shape. Key Characteristics / Core Concepts Uses compressive forces, not tensile forces like casting or drawing. Typically involves heating the metal to make … Read more
Coppersmithing is the craft of shaping copper into useful or decorative objects. It involves techniques like hammering, annealing (heating and cooling to soften the metal), and soldering. Key Characteristics / Core Concepts Working with copper sheets or ingots. Utilizing specialized tools like hammers, mallets, and anvils. Employing heat to shape and anneal the copper. Skill … Read more
Metal casting is a manufacturing process in which a liquid metal is usually poured into a mold, which contains a hollow cavity of the desired shape, and then allowed to solidify. The solidified part is also known as a casting, which is ejected or broken out of the mold to complete the process. Key Characteristics … Read more
Blacksmithing is the art and craft of making objects from wrought iron or steel by heating and hammering the metal. It’s a time-honored skill involving shaping metal using heat and hand tools. Key Characteristics / Core Concepts Heating metal to a malleable state (making it soft enough to shape). Using hammers and anvils to shape … Read more