Books about Metalworking from Amazon.com

Etching today is regarded as the old man of printmaking, its roots lying with alchemists and armourers It has slowly evolved over the centuries, taking and incorporating new developments such as photography in its stride. This book teaches the basics of etching, such as the materials required, how to prepare a plate, and ways of making marks using hard ground, soft ground an aquatint; other etching techniques including spit-bite and sugar lift and how to transfer images onto the plate using photo etching; engraving, such as various ways of marking the plate without acid, drypoint, line engraving, stipple engraving, and mezzotint; and printing advice on papers and inks, the printing process, and advanced techniques such as color printing.

The Artist Blacksmith is the essential handbook for anyone interested in bringing a creative, contemporary approach to this ancient craft, and for those already hooked who want to improve and expand their skills. Topics covered include the range and use of tools and materials; fundamental blacksmithing processes; working at the anvil; drawing down, bending, upsetting, and spreading; hot cutting; punching; and finally, twisting and joining. Illustrated with over 200 diagrams and photographs, The Artist Blacksmith will provide an introduction to the beginner and valuable information for the more experienced smith looking to expand their workshop.

This book gives complete instructions on the handling, working, and finishing of all metals. It begins with basic information and the characteristic qualities of each of the metals met by the craftsman, both precious and base. It then describes the various techniques in working metals, as well as methods of metal fabrication such as smithing, annealing, forging, and casting. The methods of metal finishing, as well as explanations of various hand tools and their uses are also included.

Engraving on Precious Metals is for professionals and others who wish to learn hand engraving as a hobby or trade, and reveals many previously undisclosed practices of the commercial engraver which help to make his skill quite astonishing. All aspects of the craft are covered exhaustively, including the relatively modern innovation of the high-class machine engraver. Illustrated throughout with over 250 drawings, the book gives practical hints for use in the workshop, while artistic matters are covered extensively in chapters on lettering design and layout, monograms, nameplates and ornamentation. A basic knowledge of ancillary crafts can be found in the sections on piercing, polishing, soldering and inlaying, and the use of unusual materials such as ivory, wood, or plastic is also discussed.