Things You'll Need
Low-carbon steel
Blacksmith’s coal
Wolf-jaw tongs
Metal forge
48-ounce blacksmith’s hammer
Shaded eye protection
Leather apron or cape
Welding gloves
Bending and shaping wrought iron is the specialty of a blacksmith. Unless you are repeatedly forging the same size bend in a piece of metal--in which case you would want some kind of jig to ensure consistency--the only tools required for bending wrought iron are a metal forge (a very, very hot fire), a hammer and an anvil. With some basic knowledge and plenty of safety equipment, you can make your own wrought iron utensils.
Step 1
Wear all protective equipment, including shaded eye protection, a leather blacksmith's apron or cape, and welding gloves.
Video of the Day
Step 2
Grip the steel with the wolf-jaw tongs and hold it in the coals of the fire. Let it sit in the coals until it has reached the desired temperature.
Step 3
Heat the steel until it becomes soft enough to shape with tools. You will know it has reached its desired malleability when the metal glows a bright yellow-orange color. This is its "forging heat."
Step 4
Remove the hot steel with the tongs.
Step 5
Lay the hot metal on the anvil with part of the metal stock extending over the edge.
Step 6
Strike the unsupported stock with the hammer a few times to force it downward. You have just bent wrought iron at a 90-degree angle.
Step 7
Make a rounded bend by wrapping the hot metal around the anvil's horn, tapping it with the hammer so it conforms to the shape of the horn.
Step 8
Continue to shape the bend, by laying the metal on the anvil's surface, turned-end up. If you strike it on the inside of the bend, you will open it up, while striking it on the outside tightens the bend.
Step 9
Refine the bend by bracing it against the horn or the face and side of the anvil (depending on which type of bend you have made).
Video of the Day