[TheForge] Fanning the flames

[Paul N]

I'm thinking about building a double-lung bellows as a winter project. 
(Actually 2 of them, one for myself, and a second to use as a working 
facsimile at a historic site nearby)

I have two references ("The Blacksmith, Ironworker and Farrier" by 
Aldrean A. Watson, and "How to Make a Blacksmith's Bellow" by Robert M. 
Heath) The designs are very similar, but not identical. These are big 
boys, about 38" across, and probably 5' long.

I'm wondering if anyone on the list has any advice to offer. I was going 
to make the paddles and ribs out of 3/4" plywood instead of the 1" 
planks described in the books. I'm also wondering if I can get by with a 
naugahyde or similar sides to avoid the expense and maintenance of leather.

I'm thinking that if the plywood isn't heavy enough to draw air, I can 
hang some weight on the bottom paddle as needed. Similarly for the top 
paddle. I can pile weight on top of it as necessary.

This sounds workable, but I'm wondering if anyone tried this and found 
it disappointing, or perhaps had a suggestion to offer.

**Paul