[TheForge] Advice for a beginner.

[Jim Poulimas]

Carrie, 
Make sure that whatever piece you are working on isn't moving or flopping around while you're holding it. I say this because you mentioned vise grips. They're ok for flat stock but not too good for round. Plus the teeth will cut into the work. It may be worth buying one or two sets of commercial tongs to get started. Eventually you will forge your own but it helps (is more safe) to have a secure grip on the material. 

Jim Poulmas

Sent from my iPhone

On Aug 26, 2013, at 1:52 PM, Carrie Haag <grddog85 at gmail.com> wrote:

> I'm planning on starting my coal forge up for the first time in about a
> month.  I think I have enough coal for a small project.  I've made an "s"
> hook and a rather ugly leaf with the over site of a much more experienced
> smith.  I have a piece of rail road track, a forge, a cross pein hammer, a
> pair of vice grips, and a ton of rebar (not ideal I know but better than
> nothing for a beginner).  As the RR track doesn't have a horn I don't think
> I can make an "s" hook.  What projects would be a good starting point for
> the experience and equipment I have?
> 
> -- 
> Carrie Haag
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