Also almost finished with a big project I've been working on. I'll post pics when it's done. The WIP has not been very glamorous, lol

My two favorite YT channels are @markcrilley.bsky.social & @markliamsmith.bsky.social

Another practice idea: draw a blob/random shape and then make something out of it. This pushes your creativity.
Warmups: my favorite is circles and then shading the circles.

Practice idea: grab a piece of junk mail or magazine with a picture. Cover half of that picture with your paper and try to complete the image. This pushes the realism/observation aspect.
Also fun to find a YouTube channel and follow a tutorial.

I got one of those little 6"square Holland swage blocks at a "defect" discount last year at the BAM Conference and while it's useful, I find myself using the good ole log more often, lol. I don't do a lot of spoons though. Someday...

Ouch!

You need that punch holder I made a few months ago! In the meantime though, maybe try holding the punch with tongs or at least a leather gloved hand to absorb a bit of the blow. I also have a knack for whacking my hand and those are the tricks I use (when I remember 😂)

I couldn't find my wax so I used a blue crayon for the finish 😂

Assembled and disassemble pics of the punch holder prior to cleaning it all up and smoothing out the mouth of the pipe.
#blacksmith #sunshinesmithing