[TheForge] Fanning the flames

[bmyers647 at comcast.net]

Paul, contact me offline and I will send you the plans that I have in a pdf of an old book. Don't know the name of the book, as I am away from my files. 

I don't recommend using the plywood. Bellows I have seen made from plywood need to weighted to allow the bottom to fall to gather the new air. It does allow fewer opportunities to leak air though. 

I have had good experience with artist's canvas as a leather substitute, but when the historical site could afford leather, it made a nicer job. 

One other suggestion, use a 5/8" bar across the entire span rather than a short piece on each side. I find that the kids who I allow to pull the bellows like to chin themselves on the rope and the short bar will weaken the center board and in one case, cracked the board. 

I have made one complete bellows. Refurbished three others. 

Barry Myers