Blacksmithing Attire: T-Shirts, Safe Or Not?

When it comes to blacksmithing, safety is the number one priority. Blacksmiths work with hot metal, which can be extremely dangerous, so it's important to wear the right clothing to protect yourself. While you don't need any special clothing, you should opt for natural fibres like cotton or wool, as these are less likely to catch fire. It's also a good idea to avoid baggy clothing, tassels or other accessories that could get too close to the workpiece or forge. In terms of footwear, steel-toed boots are a popular choice as they protect your feet from falling metal and provide comfort throughout the day. While some blacksmiths choose to wear an apron, it's not essential, but it can provide an extra layer of protection against sparks and flames. So, while you can wear a t-shirt while blacksmithing, just make sure it's made from natural fibres and that you take the necessary precautions to stay safe.

T-shirt material—natural fibres are best

When choosing a T-shirt to wear while blacksmithing, it is important to select one made from natural fibres, such as cotton or wool. Natural fibres are less likely to catch fire and are more comfortable to wear. They also tend to be more effective at preventing burns than synthetic fibres, which can melt and cause more severe wounds.

Cotton is a prevalent fibre for T-shirts, and many blacksmiths wear cotton T-shirts with close-fitting necks and sleeves without any cuffs. Cotton is a safe and standard option, especially during the summer. Wool is another suitable material, offering slightly better flame resistance than cotton but may be too warm for some people. Linen is also an option, but it can be risky as unfinished edges tend to catch sparks easily.

When selecting a T-shirt for blacksmithing, it is crucial to avoid synthetic materials such as polyester. These materials can melt under high heat, causing burns and ruining your clothing. Additionally, ensure that the T-shirt fits well and is not overly baggy, as loose clothing can pose a safety hazard when working with hot metal and flames.

To summarise, when choosing a T-shirt for blacksmithing, opt for natural fibres like cotton or wool, avoid synthetics, and ensure a snug fit for safety.

Safety equipment—eye and ear protection are essential

Safety equipment is essential when blacksmithing. The eyes and ears are particularly vulnerable when working with hot metal, so it is crucial to protect them.

The eyes are vulnerable to kinetic energy (projectiles) and radiant energy or light energy. Safety glasses are essential to protect the eyes from rogue shards of metal. It is recommended to research and invest in high-quality safety glasses. Wrap-around safety glasses or those with side shields are ideal, and glasses that help block infrared light are highly recommended. Safety glasses with bifocal lenses are also available and can be useful for detailed work. For grinding, a full-face shield is preferable to safety glasses.

The ears are also at risk from the loud noise of striking hot metal on the anvil, which often produces noise beyond 85 decibels, considered the upper limit of hearing tolerance. Ear protection is, therefore, crucial to prevent hearing loss. There are two main options for ear protection: earplugs and earmuffs. Earplugs are inserted into the ear canal and are typically cheaper than earmuffs. They can be more comfortable for some people, but they must be inserted properly to be effective. They are a good choice for hot working areas. Earmuffs are similar in appearance to headphones and consist of soft ear cushions and sound-reducing material. They must be tightly constricted but remain comfortable. Earmuffs are easier to put on and remove than earplugs, and the two can be worn together to reduce noise levels further.

Footwear—steel-toed boots are recommended

When it comes to blacksmithing, safety is paramount. The right footwear can protect you from burns, cuts, sprains, slips, falls, and crushed toes.

Steel-toed boots are highly recommended for blacksmiths. They offer excellent protection against heavy falling objects, with the ability to withstand up to 70-pound objects falling from 9 feet. They also provide much-needed protection from hot pieces of metal and coal that often end up on the floor during the forging process.

When choosing your steel-toed boots, ensure they fit comfortably. Uncomfortable boots can lead to body fatigue and reduce your productivity throughout the day. Look for boots with quality build and excellent stitching, and consider well-known brands like Red Wing, which has a reputation for manufacturing excellent-quality boots.

Additionally, pay attention to the length of your pants. They should be long enough to cover the gaps between your boots and ankles, preventing hot metal shavings from entering your shoes and causing burns or discomfort.

While steel-toed boots are ideal, they are not mandatory for every forging session. For general purposes, a high-quality pair of work boots can suffice, provided they offer adequate protection and have no gaps between your pants and boots.

Remember, blacksmithing is inherently dangerous, and accidents can happen despite your best efforts. Always prioritize safety and choose clothing and footwear that minimize risks and maximize protection.

Aprons—protects your skin and clothes

Wearing an apron is a great way to add a layer of protection when working with hot metal. While some blacksmiths choose not to wear one, it is a good idea to have one on hand for certain tasks. An apron will protect your skin from cuts and burns and will also protect your clothes.

When choosing an apron, it is important to consider the type of straps it has. Aprons with only a neck strap can become uncomfortable during long smithing sessions and can dig into your skin if you are wearing a collarless shirt. Look for an apron with a cross or waist strap that will distribute the weight more comfortably.

You will also need to decide whether you want an apron with pockets or not. Pockets can be handy for holding tools and other items, but they tend to collect metal shavings and molten iron, which can be difficult to clean out.

If you choose to wear an apron, it is important to select one made from the right material. Leather aprons provide better protection than denim and are less likely to burn. They can also be more comfortable to wear, especially if you are working in a hot environment.

In addition to the type of apron you choose, it is also important to consider the length. A forging apron should be long enough to protect your legs and feet from sparks and hot metal. Look for an apron that is at least 23 inches wide and 34 inches long, or choose a longer option if you want more coverage.

When it comes to colour, a dark-coloured apron, such as black or brown, can be a good choice. Lighter colours may show soot and dirt more easily, requiring more frequent cleaning. However, a lighter-coloured apron can help you see small pieces of metal that may have fallen onto it, which could be useful in some situations. Ultimately, the colour of your apron comes down to personal preference.

Gloves—protect your hands from radiant heat

While there is an ongoing debate among blacksmiths about the pros and cons of wearing gloves, it is generally agreed that gloves are essential for protecting your hands from radiant heat. However, some blacksmiths argue that gloves can be cumbersome and that it is better to get used to not wearing them.

When to wear gloves

Some blacksmithing activities require gloves, such as punching a hole in a piece of stock, where your hand will be very close to the heated stock. Gloves are also useful when working with large project pieces that give off a lot of radiant heat.

When not to wear gloves

Many blacksmithing operations do not require gloves, and they can even be a liability for some tasks. Gloves can be hard to slip off, and sweat can accumulate underneath, leading to burns. Gloves can also get caught in machinery, so it is generally advised not to wear them when operating machinery or doing hammering work.

Choosing the right gloves

When choosing blacksmithing gloves, it is important to consider the materials they are made of, any certifications, and their heat resistance. Leather, Kevlar, silicone, and cut-resistant materials are all good options. It is recommended to avoid gloves made of plastic materials, as they can melt easily and stick to your skin.

Heat resistance is a critical factor when selecting gloves. They should be thick enough to protect your hands from the heat and potential burns. It is also important to choose gloves that will alert you if what you are touching is too hot, as it can be challenging to gauge heat levels while wearing gloves.

The sizing of the gloves is also crucial. They should provide enough protection while still allowing for mobility and a good range of motion. Longer gloves that protect greater areas of your arms are recommended if you are exposed to a larger source of heat.

Frequently asked questions