Many welders today have an interest in the oldest of all welding processes, forge welding, that has been traced back to the Iron Age in Egypt in 1350 B.C.  The early forges used by blacksmiths were very similar to those still in use.  It is sometimes called hammer welding and fascinates young and old alike.

Forge welding is a solid state welding process that produces coalescence by the application of pressure without melting any of the joint components.  Work pieces are heated to welding temperature, red hot but considerably below the molten temperature.   A flux may be applied to the interface.  A blacksmith is then able to create pressure, by the skillful use of a hammer and an anvil, and makes the weld by applying blows sufficient to cause permanent deformation at the faying surfaces.

THE EXPERT

Bob Patrick, a blacksmith from Arkansas, takes you step-by-step through the entire process in his instructional, step-by-step video, Forge Welding.  Bob, now age 55, began blacksmithing when he was only nine years old.  For the better part of his adult life, he has not only pursued blacksmithing as a hobby, but also as a means of livelihood.  He had been employed as a restoration blacksmith at the historic Hale Farm and Village in Bath, Ohio, and later has had his own shop in Missouri and most recently in Arkansas.  He was a Master Blacksmith for the State of Missouri for several years under the Missouri Arts Council and National Endowment of the Arts. 

Bob has demonstrated blacksmithing throughout the USA and Canada, including under the Arch in St. Louis for the Frontier Folklife Festivals put on by the U.S. Department of the Interior in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s.  He has taught courses at his own blacksmithing school, other various craft schools and has experience shodding horses as a farrier.  In 2002, he was awarded the Alex Bealer Award, the top blacksmithing award in North America.

Sharing his expertise through video, Bob begins with the basics, explaining the equipment as well as the process.  He has even provided a listing of sources for further information and equipment.  If you have an interest in this ancient craft, this 107-minute video is one you will want to add to your collection.  Just $28.00 (prepaid) includes shipping and handling.

 Contact:
Bob Patrick
Blacksmith
1859 MC 4026
Everton, AR 72633
(870)427-5559