Scrollwork

Basic Principles of Scrollwork

• Scrollwork is a decorative element commonly used in blacksmithing, renowned for its intricate and elegant curves.
• It involves heating and bending metal strips into spiral or scroll-like shapes.
• Mastering scrollwork requires a good grasp of heat control and a steady hand for bending and shaping.

Tools for Scrollwork

• The primary tool for scrollwork is the scrolling fork or scrolling tongs, used to bend the heated metal.
• Another important tool is the scrolling jig, a device with pins or pegs set in patterns that the hot metal can be bent around.
• The anvil horn can also be used to form scrolls, particularly larger or more open curves.

Heating and Bending

• An even heat is critical in scrollwork. Inconsistent heating can lead to uneven bending and mar the flowing lines of the scroll.
• Slow, steady pressure is applied to the metal with the scrolling tools to create curves.
• The metal is re-heated regularly during the scrolling process to maintain its malleability.

Types of Scrolls

• The most basic scroll type is the C-scroll, so named for its resemblance to the letter C.
• More complex is the S-scroll, which consists of two C-scrolls back-to-back, resembling the letter S.
• Other scrolls include the bicentric scroll, which involves two circles with different centres, and the elaborate spiral scroll.

Finishing and Applying Scrolls

• After forming, scrolls are typically cleaned with a wire brush to remove any scale and then cooled.
• Scrolls can be used as standalone decorations or joined to other pieces using techniques such as welding or riveting.
• Trims, leaves, or other decorative elements can be added to make the scrolls more complex and visually interesting.