Candle Holder
The candle holder is a basic item, it teaches hammer control and makes a nice item for mom. You will need anvil, hammer, tongs, forge and 40" of 1/4" round stock. This project can also be done with 36" peice of stock if you don't make a wound handle.
Start by heating one end to yellow heat and place it over the edge of the anvil. Strike the 1/4" end hanging over the anvil to start your curl and then flip it up and hammer with a glancing blow till you have a nice tight curl.
The next steps are very repetitive. Heat the rod just pass the curl. Place the rod over the edge of the anvil and tap it down so looks like the second picture. Then flip it over and tapit down and towards you, so it rolls up. Repeat till you have a 1"- 1 1/2" roll. Cool and flip the rod around to the other end.
Heat the other end and put a point on it. This will be the point to hold the candle in place. Then bend the rod to a 90 degree angle as shown in the picture. This is done by placing the end over the edge of the anvil and hammering down. Sometimes you have to hammer the part on top of the anvil flat and then go back to the side to get a sharp angle.
I feel this next step is the hardest of the project. Place your point over the edge of the anvil and keep it perpendicular with the side as you hammer it down to start your curl. then flip it around and tighten the curl up. Once you havethe curl started proceed in making the roll using the same directions as the first scroll.
There is a second way to wrap the rod that is easier and faster but does not work on your hammering skill. Stick the wrapped part in the vise as shown and just pull the rod down in line with the wrap. Repeat, heat, repeat, heat, repeat until you get close to the handle.
Heat your project and bend it up and away from the larger scroll. Make sure the handle faces straight to the center.
Position the handle in a way that is pleasing to you. I like it scrolled and level with base.
