Things You'll Need:
- Oil drum Metal saw Metal drill Gannister or clay
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Step 1
Cut the top off of the barrel, then build a sheet metal form that will slide inside of the barrel. There should be at least two inches of space between the form and the inside of the barrel.
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Step 2
Fill this space with clay or gannister, an insulating material that resists high levels of heat. Pack the gannister into the form, removing air bubbles, then let sit for at least 24 hours.
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Step 3
Remove the form, then let the gannister cure for another three days.
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Step 4
Drill a hole into the side of the oil drum using a metal and masonry bit to install a pipe for your gas burner. Usually the hole will be about 2 1/2 inches in diameter, but this could vary depending on the size of the gas burner you use.
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Step 5
Install a section of iron pipe in this hole and then connect your gas burner to the forge.
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Step 6
Cut a slot in the front of the barrel for the door, and attach solid iron hinges to the remaining plate to create a door. Then insulate the top of the oil drum by applying an inch or more of gannister, careful to leave room around the edges so the door will close.
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Step 7
Attach another pair of hinges to the oil drum, and the top once it is fully dry and cured, to complete your backyard forge.
