Complex joinery

Understanding Complex Joinery

• Definition: Grasp the concept of joinery as a technique used to connect or join two pieces of material together, often used in creating joints for furniture, structures, and decorative pieces.
• Types of Joints: Understand the wide range of joints used in blacksmithing including but not limited to mortise and tenon, dovetail joints, and lap joints.

Application of Advanced Joinery Techniques

• Riveting: Gain proficiency in riveting as a necessary skill for blacksmithing. Comprehend the process of joining pieces of metal by heating one end and hammering it into a head while the other end serves as support.
• Wrap and Weld: Master the technique of wrap and weld where two pieces of metal are heated, wrapped around each other, and then forge welded together. This ends up creating a decorative and sturdy joint.

The Art of Creating Custom Joints

• Design Considerations: Understand the importance of design in custom joinery. The choices often depend on the application, the load that the joint will bear, and the aesthetic preference.
• Customisation Techniques: Realise the potential of personalising joints with carving, engraving, and finishing techniques like bronzing, bluing, and patinating to create unique pieces.

Maintenance and Care

• Preventing Rust and Corrosion: Familiarise yourself with the methods of preventing rust and corrosion on joints such as oil treatments, wax finishes, and paint applications.
• Inspection and Repair: Comprehend the necessity of regular inspection and maintenance of joints. Understand how to identify weak or compromised joints and perform necessary repairs.

Health and Safety

• Safe Handling of Tools: Learn and follow safe handling procedures for all the tools used in joinery.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Never neglect to use appropriate personal protective equipment like eye protection, gloves, aprons and protective footwear when working on joinery.