Metal has been used by craftsmen and blacksmiths for hundreds of years to make both practical and decorative items. Over the centuries techniques have been refined, and today it is possible for any competent handyman to work with metal, and achieve rewarding results. Whichever method is used, there is usually some form of heat involved, to aid bonding of the metals when soldering or brazing, and to melt the metal in fusion welding – traditionally in a blacksmith's forge, but now more usually with electricity or gas. Safety is a priority, and guidelines must be followed.
How To Weld the easy way has been produced primarily as a beginner's guide for those wanting to weld, but it will also give those with basic welding and related skills a host of good ideas that will enable then to develop their craft further.
The section on tools and materials provides a general overview of the subject, in terms of weldable metals, filler materials and tools. Traditional tools are discussed, along with the most common hand tools used today, as well as power tools and the full range of equipment needed to tackle the various welding processes. This will guide you in terms of what you need to buy before you get started with your first welding projects.
The range of metalworking techniques varies considerably, largely according to the metal used and specific welding technique chosen. This relates directly to the tools
you will need; so it is wise to be sure which direction you intend to take before you rush out and spend a lot of money on your new workshop.
The chapter on techniques is substantial, and covers all the related possibilities from basic cutting, gouging, drilling and forming of metal, to the full range of joining techniques, such as riveting, soldering and welding.Those described in some detail are: • Soft soldering, a process which produces a relatively low strength join.

• Hard soldering, commonly used when working with copper or brass.
• Brazing, which is suitable for joining different types of metals.
• Brazewelding, a popular method of fabrication, which is also used for repair work as it produces a high strength join.
• Gas welding, a versatile, but demanding technique.
• Manual metal arc (MMA) welding, commonly used for joining thick and often different metals, and also the most usual technique employed by weekend metal- workers.
• Metal inert gas (MIG) welding, which requires skill but is versatile and quick.
• Tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding, which also requires skill and training, and is generally considered a specialist technique.
Some of the most common weld defects are also discussed in this chapter.
The most common finishing techniques are covered in a short chapter of their own. These include painting and special effects you can do yourself, as well as specialist coatings and finishes including galvanising and powder or epoxy coating.
More than ten projects, of varying complexity, are illustrated with step-by-step photographs and illustrations. Cutting lists are provided, along with a rundown of the tools (including jigs) you will need to make the items.Very simple starter projects include fire accessories and an ingenious drinks stand. Once you have mastered the art of welding, you can move on to gates and burglar bars and even make your own furniture, fireplace or indoor barbecue.