Ornamental ironwork requires some practice to develop the necessary skills. This project will help develop several forging skills, and provide attractive leaves.
Select a 18″ length of 3/8″ round steel. You can use a shorter piece, but you will need to hold the piece in a pair of bolt tongs.
1) The first step is to forge the end to a point. At the edge of the anvil, angle the work piece and the hammer blows to effect a tapered end on the steel.
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2) Now “neck down” a portion about 3/4″ behind the end of the steel. This is accomplished by using the edge of the anvil and the edge of the hammer to “fuller” the steel.
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3) Next flatten and draw to the shape you wish. By using a cross pein hammer, you will move the steel faster and in the direction you want.
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4) Fold the leaf in half, to forge the center vein in the leaf. Use the step of the anvil, and a cross pein hammer to begin the fold. Finish the fold on the face of the anvil. Hammer the crease area tightly to form the center vein of the leaf.
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5) Heat the folded leaf, and begin to open the fold with a flat screw driver. Once the initial opening is made forge the leaf open using the edge of the anvil. Continue to forge the curls and shape that you desire.
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6) Add the cross veining with a cross pein hammer…
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7) Finish the leaf with a strong wire brush. For a bronze finish use a copper or brass brush.
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Leaves forged in this manner may be welded together to enhance any ornamental project (see Forge Welding Tip).