[TheForge] aprons

[Phlip]

If you think you need/want an apron, you might want to look at where your
clothes are burned before you make a final choice. As a farrier, the one I
got as part of my Horseshoeing School supplies was fine for my purposes- very
soft, split cowhide, went from my waist to halfway down my calves, and split
almost to the crotch so I could fit a horse's leg between my knees. Decided
to punch a couple holes and tie it loosely around my thighs because it tended
to flap in the wrong directions, but being around horses, the ties were easy
to break away. Also tied the long waist strings in front with a rapid release
knot, because the last thing you need is to be firmly attached to a horse's
foot while he's in the middle of a major temper tantrum ;-) Never had a burn
above the waist while smithing or horseshoeing, but I also know that there's
always a first time.

A good cotton duck would work fine too, if you can't afford or find real
leather. Just keep in mind that you NEVER want synthetic fabrics around fire-
it burns and melts far too easily, and can put you in worse shape than a
direct  burn would.

Also, looking at welding suppliers can help you find leather garb for
smithing. Even if you can't afford to buy from them, looking at what they
have available may help you decide what you want for yourself.

Along with avoiding pockets, make sure your boots are covered so nothing can
fall down them and get caught where you can't get it out in a hurry. One of
the worst burns I've ever gotten was when a guy I was working with INSISTED I
wear boots with my halter top and cut-offs, for foot protection. Naturally, a
bit of hot scale fell down my boot and just sat there burning me. In hot
enough weather that I'm going to be wearing cut-offs and a halter top, I will
NEVER again wear boots, and if someone doesn't like it, that's tough. I know
what I'm willing to risk, and unnecessary burns aren't a risk I'm willing to
take- skin is easy to douse and brush off. My personal preference is for less
protection and armor, and more ability to get out of the way- that's why I
have gloves available, but seldom wear them. You need to make your own
reasoned choices.

Phlip