Plain and Ornamental Forging

This reprint of Ernst Schwartkopf's masterwork offers one of the most enlightening books ever written on the blacksmith’s craft. Called a "bible" of the trade," it has been used by generations of blacksmiths as the seminal text on forging.

Designed primarily to assist the beginner in learning both the theory and practice of forge work through self-instruction, the chapters on advanced forging and art forging provide directions for more difficult types of work suitable for the skilled blacksmith. The book has excellent sections on tool manipulation, toolsmithing, basic exercises and ornamental work, including the forming of flowers. . Throughout, Schwarzkopf stresses the importance of learning solid fundamentals and proper tooling, as well as the proper mind set. The illustrations are easy to follow and the explanations are concise and to the point.

The origin story of this version of the book is thrilling to us - Joel had a personal copy of the book, whose rights were in the public domain, and sent it to Astragal Press for reprinting, thereby bringing this valuable work back into print.

Pages: 282
Binding: TP

"...a thoroughly comprehensive book with the ring of authenticity. - Treasure Chest
"A classic" - Anvil