How to Build a Smithy Forge

Remove one side from your coffee can and drill a 1-inch diameter hole into the side of the can.

Line the inside of the can with a 2-inch-thick layer of kaowool fabric. Kaowool is an asbestos replacement that is non-toxic and a very effective heat insulator. This can be purchased wherever home insulation is sold, or at pottery stores. While lining the can, cut out a circular section of fabric to cover the open end of the can later. Remove enough kaowool fabric from the hole drilled in the side of the can to allow the torch flame access to the center of the can.

Attach the all-steel garden hose sprinkler head to the hose coming from the propane tank regulator. This garden sprayer will be used as a torch head from the propane tank, inserted into the hole in the side of the coffee can. Test for functionality by holding a flame to the tip of the sprayer while slowly turning on the propane gas tank and regulator.

Place a piece of metal into the can, and cover the open end with the circular sheet of kaowool fabric cut out in Step 2. Place the lit tip of the garden sprinkler up to the hole drilled into the coffee can, but do not insert it into the can, as high insulated temperatures may melt the tip itself. Check on your piece of metal regularly, and remove when it has become red hot, using your tongs.

Shape the metal while red hot by striking it with a hammer against an anvil. Replace the metal into the can forge when the color cools from a red to a gray-black color.