How to Make Ornamental Ironwork
Although iron is a highly utilitarian material, it is also well suited for use in artistic pieces. Projects ranging from decorative stair railings to doorhandles and wall hangings are all popular additions to modern home decor. By tapping into their creativity and blacksmith skills, iron workers can transform seemingly lifeless pieces of iron into eye catching ornamental creations. However, to see an ornamental ironwork project through to completion requires an array of materials, tools and skill from the craftsman.
Things You'll Need
- Iron rods
- Propane forge
- Blacksmith tongs
- Blacksmith hammer
- Anvil
- Vice
- Chisel or punches
- Project pattern
- Leather gloves
- Metal bucket
Instructions
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1
Complete a basic pattern for the ornamental iron project that you will be taking on. Draw a set of basic plans that specifies the number of iron pieces that will be required to complete the project, the measurements of each piece and how the final project will be assembled. Refer to this set of plans throughout the project to prepare materials accordingly and check your work.
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2
Grab the piece of iron that you will be initially working with using blacksmith's tongs. Place the section of iron that needs to be shaped into a propane forge until it appears yellow to white in color and has reached an approximate temperature of 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit.
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3
Remove the iron from the forge using tongs and wearing thick leather gloves for heat protection. Transport the hot iron to your work station quickly and safely.
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4
Create scrolls, or bends, in the iron by placing iron piece near the horn of the anvil and striking it with a blacksmith's hammer to mold the iron around the anvil. Strike the iron with the hammer in a controlled manner, using steady force to encourage the iron to take on the desired shape.
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5
Strike hot iron pieces with chisels or punches to create indentations, nicks and cuts in the iron surface. This process can add a distressed or rustic look to ornamental ironwork.
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6
Clamp hot iron inside of a vice to create twists in an iron rod. Grasp the loose end of the iron with a pair of vice grips, or blacksmith's tongs, and firmly twist the iron into the desired shape. This is a common practice in creating ornamental door handles, gates or stair railings.
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Dip the hot iron pieces into a metal bucket, full of cold water, once they have been formed into the desired shapes. Assemble the final project, if more than once piece of iron is involved, using bolts or welding processes to fuse the iron together.
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Tips & Warnings
Work quickly so that the iron remains malleable. After 20 to 30 seconds of cooling, iron will begin to become brittle.
Ornamental ironworking involves high heat and should be attempted only by experienced metal workers, or under the supervision of a professional.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
