How to Make a #10 Can Forge

The base of this project is a recycled #10 can that otherwise would have been thrown away so I am happy I am able to use it in this project. I have wanted to buy/make a forge for a while but forges can be expensive so I decided to build my own. I have been wanting to make a knife for a while so I decided to build this forge that is both cheap and effective. This is a great starter forge for all those that don't have space or money for a large forge. I am so excited for the chance to share my build process and instructions.

Supplies

The first thing that you need to do is gather all the tools and materials that you will need to build this forge. The main body of the forge is a #10 can that are often used for food storage. So the next time you open a can of beans or wheat save the can instead of throwing it out. I have attached a list of all the tools and materials we used on this project.

Tools:

• Can opener
• Drill
• 1 in. Cup saw or Step bit
• 1/2 inch metal drill bit
• 2x 3/4 wrench
• Measuring tape
• Marker
• Blow torch

Supplies:

• Bucket
• Mixing stick
• Gloves
• #10 can with plastic lid
• Bag of sand
• Plaster of Paris (4.4 lbs.)
• 2 bolts and 4 nuts (1/2 in. -13 x 2 in.)
• 2 bolts and 2 nuts (3/8 in.-16 x 1 in.)
• Pringles can or empty spray can
• Screen door handle

Step 1: Open Can and Drill Holes

The first thing that you need to use a can opener to open the top and the bottom so you are left with a circular tube. then you are going to take your 1 in. cup saw or step bit and drill a hole in the side of the can. This will be the hole for the blow torch. Next you are going to drill two holes on the top for the handle directly in the center. The last two holes will be drilled 1 in. back on the bottom of the can and 3 in. apart these will be for the supporting legs.

Step 2: Attach All the Hardware

Take the door handle and the 2 bolts and 2 nuts (3/8 in.-16 x 1 in.) set the handle on top and thread the bolts through. Now you need to fasten the nuts on the other side this will attach the handle. The next thing we need to do is attach the support legs. I took the 2 bolts and 4 nuts (1/2 in. -13 x 2 in.) and threaded on one nut on each bolt. Then I pushed them through the holes on the bottom and attached the bolts on the inside. Once you have done this you are ready to set up the mold.

Step 3: Set Up the Forms

For a forge to work it needs insulation so we need to sit up a temporary form. I used a Pringles can and used a drywall screw to attach the lid of the can. I then took it and put the lid on the can. Now when we pour the insulating mix we will be left with a hollow center. I then drilled a hole in the pringles can in line with the hole in the can. Once you have done this you can insert a metal pipe to make a hole for the torch later on. I then taped around any seems snd we were ready to mix the refractory.

Step 4: Mix the Refractory and Pour Into Forge

Now you can mix the refractory by taking the bucket and adding 48 oz. of sand, 48 oz. Plaster of Paris, and 48 oz. of water. You should be good as long as you add equal parts of all ingredients. Next, mix the refractory until it starts thickening. Once it is all well-mixed pour into the forge. Smooth the top and let it sit for 10 minutes. Come back out and remove the pipe and Pringles can and let sit for 24 hrs.

Step 5: First Light

After you have let it dry. Insert torch into the hole and you are ready to forge. I am so excited about all the projects that I now can start. I am so excited to see you results.