Identifying material and construction techniques in existing work

Material Identification

Understand the importance of material identification as a foundation for any restoration project.
Grasp the difference between wrought iron, steel, and cast iron and their general physical and chemical properties.
Recognise various metals by their appearance, texture, sound, or even smell.
Understand how to use simple field tests, such as the spark test, file test, or magnet test, to identify metals.
Appreciate how different metals respond to heat and forging processes.

Learn to identify traditional joinery and fastening techniques, such as rivets, mortise and tenon joints, collars and forge welds.
Gain familiarity with distinctive marks or indicators that can hint at specific blacksmithing styles or periods.
Understand the impact of heat treatment on the final properties of a workpiece, such as its hardness or resilience.
Familiarise with the basic forming techniques including bending, twisting, shaping, stretching and shrinking.
Appreciate the role of surface finishing techniques like brushing, grinding, painting, or galvanizing in not just appearance but also longevity of smithed pieces.

Recognise the importance of researching the historical context of a piece before starting restoration work to stay as true to the original as possible.
Learn to use archives, local history resources or specialists’ advice when identifying the original construction techniques.
Understand the impact of local traditions and practices as well as the available resources on the original production methods.
Respect the patina or the natural ageing process of metals and incorporate that understanding into restoration decisions.

Follow health and safety guidelines while handling metals or operating tools and machinery.
Recognise hazardous materials commonly used in past which might still be present in older pieces, such as lead-based paints.
Practice safe disposal of waste materials according to environmental guidelines.
Implement proper use and maintenance of equipment to avoid damage or mishaps during restoration.