The following exercises will be of a simple nature to give the beginner an idea of the tools and processes used in producing this kind of work by hand. The writer does not claim that the following method is the only one to be used in doing this work. There are many other ways to execute these exercises and one should use his own ingenuity in designing and executing individual pieces. It is hoped that pupils will be encouraged to originate designs of their own to work out in this interesting metal.
The tools used in making these exercises will be the ordinary forge shop tools that can be made, and will be described later on, as they are needed.
Exercise No. 1.
Fig. 7. Volute Scrolls.
Volute Scroll. This exercise is given in order to familiarize one with the bending of curved forms and also to train the hand and eye in doing free-hand work. No metal lends itself more readily to the bending of curves than wrought iron. The scroll is an important element in the designing of iron doors, window grilles, etc. In bending, the scroll must not have kinks or flat places, but a gradual curve. If it is desired to suggest strength, the scroll is coiled tightly; or if lightness of effect is desired, it is coiled loosely. In making a scroll to fit some particular place a drawing is made with chalk on a surface plate. The scroll is then measured along the line with a string to find its length. In [Figure 7] are shown drawings of typical scrolls. The one at A shows too much space between the coils. The scroll at B is top-heavy owing to the coils being equal in size. The one at C has a continuous curve with unequal coils which balance better. In bending a scroll from a flat piece of stock, as shown in [Figure 8], the end is heated and hammered on the corners to make it round at one end. It is then bent over the outer edge of the anvil, as shown in [Figure 9] A and B, to form the eye. It is then heated for a considerable part of its length and rolled up as shown at C. If any kinks get into the bar they can be rectified by hammering on the horn. This is the method used in forming a scroll with the hammer. In heating the bar to be rolled into scroll form, it must not be heated to a white heat. Scrolls are also bent over forms when a great number are wanted. Heavy scrolls are formed by bending in a bending fork that fits into a square hole in the anvil. (See fork in [Figure 10].) A monkey wrench is used to bend the bar when in the fork.
Fig. 8.
