Metalworking
Metalworking is the craft of shaping, molding, and casting metals into both artistic and functional objects. This practice has roots that trace back to early human civilization, with gold being the first metal utilized around 7000 BCE, followed by copper for tools and weapons. The development of mining around 4000 BCE dramatically increased metal availability, and techniques like smelting and engraving emerged as early craftsmen learned to manipulate raw ores. Significant advancements occurred with the introduction of bronze around 3000-2000 BCE, followed by iron and steel production, which transformed weaponry and tool-making across various cultures.
Throughout history, metalworking has evolved through technological innovations, such as the introduction of welding in the early 1800s and modern industrial techniques that expanded production capabilities. Today, metalworking is not only crucial in industrial settings but has also become a popular hobby for many, involving the creation of jewelry, art, and functional items. Educational institutions offer courses for those interested in both basic and specialized techniques, highlighting the continued relevance of metalworking in contemporary society. Whether pursued as a profession or a leisurely craft, metalworking remains an integral part of human creativity and industry.
Metalworking
History
The craft of metalworking involves the shaping, molding and casting of metal into sculptures and utilitarian objects. Metalworking developed simultaneously in many cultures, and was an important factor in the development of human society.
Gold was the first metal discovered by humans, around 7000 BCE. Copper was also discovered by Neolithic people, and was used to fashion some of the earliest metal weapons. Metals were only found in scattered deposits until the invention of mining around 4000 BCE, which greatly increased the supply of metal and ore.
Archaeologists believe that smelting (the process of removing metal from its ore) was discovered by accident, as early humans used fire to clean and treat handmade metal tools as well as colorful rocks and stones. Heating raw ore produces small amounts of liquid metal, which can be collected and used by metalworkers.
Egyptians used galena (lead sulfide) to produce liquid lead. By 3000 BCE, craftsmen in the Middle East and Egypt had developed sophisticated techniques for creating gold and silver jewelry. Egyptians also developed techniques for engraving soft metals such as lead.
Sometime between 3000 and 2000 BCE, the Sumerians and Babylonians pioneered the art of making bronze by blending copper and tin. This development led to a worldwide revolution in weaponry and domestic goods.
The Hittites were the first culture to develop the heating and hammering techniques needed to purify iron ore. By 1200 BCE, iron weapons were common, and the material was also used for farming tools and household items. Applying carbon coal to heated iron led to the production of steel in the eleventh century BCE. Chinese craftsmen later developed the ability to melt iron, which led to the process of iron and steel casting. Iron and steel workers developed into the blacksmith class of laborers in Asia, Africa and eventually Europe.
The ancient metals, including hybrid metals like bronze and steel, were the only metals known until the twelfth century CE, when arsenic was discovered in Europe. Spanish explorers discovered platinum in Mexico in the 1500s and used the metal in the construction of jewelry and decorative objects. The Spanish were already recognized as masters of decorative metalwork, especially in the construction of swords, firearms and armor.
It wasn't until the 1700s that major advances in metalworking occurred, including new processes for making steel using coke rather than charcoal. Increased steel production paved the way for the development of industrial metalworking. At the same time, craftsmen developed a variety of hand tools for molding and decorating metals, while metallurgists developed new techniques for separating, purifying and recombining metals.
The invention of welding in the early 1800s led to a revolution in metalworking. Industrial metalworkers were soon using welding techniques in the construction of buildings, furniture and eventually vehicles. Other tools, including lathes and drill presses used in woodworking, were eventually adopted for use with metal.
Metalworking remained an important factor in industrial science through the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, and became more popular among artists and amateur hobbyists. During the late twentieth century, the reduced cost of raw metal and advances in engraving, polishing, and metallurgy increased the popularity of metalworking as a leisure activity.
Techniques
Metalworking classes are offered at many high schools and colleges around the country. Some colleges offer adult education programs that teach basic metalworking techniques and allow students access to the university's metalworking shop. In addition to basic metalworking, some educational institutions now offer classes in specific types of metalworking, such as jewelry making or metal sculpture.
Jewelers who wish to avoid the high cost of precious metals have begun working with steel for the construction of rings, necklaces and bracelets. Some carbon steel jewelry costs nearly as much as that made with silver or gold.
Metalworking for Fun vs. Profit
Some hobbyist metalworkers create and sell metal tools, artwork, or furniture. A novice metalworker may want to begin by selling his or her creations at craft fairs or over the Internet. Experienced hobbyists who have mastered multiple techniques can also sell their work on a contract basis.
Professional metalworkers sometimes work as weapon makers, supplying the world's knife, sword, and firearm aficionados. Constructing metal weapons requires knowledge of specialized techniques and the use of specific equipment. Most weapon makers begin as apprentices to experienced blacksmiths. Weapons makers, particularly those who make swords, often sell their creations in such venues as Renaissance fairs and fantasy conventions.
Learning More
Organizations
Artist Blacksmiths Association of North America (ABANA) <www.abana.org>
North American Model Engineering Society (NAMES) <www.namesexposition.com/>
Books
Blandford, Percy W. Practical Blacksmithing and Metalworking. McGraw-Hill Professional, 1988.
Bray, Stan. Metalworking: Tools and Techniques. New York. Crowood Press, 2003.
Hall, Harold. The Metalworker's Workshop for Home Machinists. Fox Chapel Publishing, 2013.
McCreight, Tim. The Complete Metalsmith: An Illustrated Handbook. Sterling Books, 1991.
Peterson, Linda. Metalwork Jewelry: 35 Step-by-Step Projects Inspired by Steampunk. CICO Books, 2018.
Rohw, Mark. Opportunities in Metalworking Careers. McGraw-Hill Professional, 2001.