Forged S-Hook
Skill focus: tapering, scrolling, symmetry
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 30–60 mins
Tools
Forge, anvil, 2–2.5 lb hammer, tongs, wire brush, tape measure/soapstone, vise (optional)
Materials
Mild steel round bar: 8–10 mm thick, 250–300 mm long
Steps
Mark the centre of your bar (chalk/soapstone). Heat the middle to orange.
Create the first taper: On the anvil edge, draw out one end to a gradual taper (about 60–80 mm long).
Keep it even by rotating the bar as you strike.
Dress the taper: Light planishing blows to smooth.
Repeat for the other end: Match taper length and thickness as closely as possible.
Form the first scroll: Heat one tapered end. Use the horn (or anvil edge) to start a curl.
Tighten with controlled blows.
Form the second scroll: Heat the other end and curl in the opposite direction.
Create the “S”: Heat the centre and gently bend into an S shape. Use the horn for smooth curves.
Tune symmetry: Reheat sections as needed; correct alignment while warm, not cold.
Finish
Wire brush hot, then oil/wax while warm.
