Blacksmithing Business vs YouTube

Рет қаралды 35,553

Жыл бұрын

Here at Black Bear Forge, blacksmithing is a business and making KZfaq videos about blacksmithing is an important part of that business model.
Become a Patron - / blackbearforge
Try out Zarta -zarta.com/u/blackbearforge
Blacksmith Supply: www.blacksmithsupply.com/
Use discount code "bear5"
Combat Abrasives - bit.ly/3r73P8d
Use code "Blackbear10" for a discount on your next order
Anvil provided by; Fontanini Anvil
www.stevefontaniniblacksmith.com
Precut blanks for forging available from:
www.blacksmithingblanks.com
use coupon code John at checkout.
My blacksmiths apron
www.Forge-Aprons.com use code BBF
Music sourced through Epidemic sound
www.epidemicsound.com/referra...
Become a Patron - / blackbearforge
Donate - www.paypal.me/BlackBearForge
Shop - www.blackbearforge.etsy.com
Web site - www.blackbearforge.com
Instagram - / blackbearfo. .
FaceBook - / john.blackbe. .
John Switzer channel - / johnswitzer
Some of my most used gear*
Canon EOS R6 Mirrorless Camera - adorama.rfvk.net/b3yZ7v
Canon EOS R Mirrorless Camera - adorama.rfvk.net/J50gq
Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L Lens - adorama.rfvk.net/6bb7yV
Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8 L Lens - adorama.rfvk.net/rneRoG
Sony ZV1 point and shoot camera - adorama.rfvk.net/BXKMkJ
Rode Wireless Go microphone - adorama.rfvk.net/YggLRm
Deity V Mic D3 pro - adorama.rfvk.net/mxO51
Insta360 One X2 - www.insta360.com/sal/one_x2?i...
Insta360 Go2 - www.insta360.com/sal/go_2?ins...
Autel Evo II pro drone - auteldrones.com/?ref=HUB40s11...
Autel Evo Nano+ drone - auteldrones.com/?ref=HUB40s11...
*Links include affiliate links
Mailing address:
Black Bear Forge
P.O. Box 4
Beulah, CO 81023
Below you will find useful links that will help you in your journey as a blacksmith.
To find more information in blacksmithing in the US or to search for your local ABANA affiliate group visit.
www.abana.org/
Blacksmithing tools and supplies
Self contained air hammers - www.saymakhammers.com/
General blacksmithing supplies - www.oleoacresfarriersupply.com/
General blacksmithing supplies - www.piehtoolco.com/
General blacksmithing supplies - www.centaurforge.com/
General blacksmithing supplies - www.blacksmithsdepot.com/
General blacksmithing supplies - www.blacksmithsupply.com/
Square head bolts and lags - www.blacksmithbolt.com/
New anvils - www.oldworldanvils.com/
New anvils - www.nimbaanvils.com/
New anvils -
Industrial supplier - www.mcmaster.com
Tong blanks and tools - kensironstore.com/
Fire brick and refractory - refwest.com
Blacksmithing and related activities can be hazardous. These videos are not a substitute for competent professional instruction. Your safety is your sole responsibility. Always use appropriate safety equipment including eye and ear protection when working in the shop. Follow manufactures safety guidelines for the use of all equipment. In the event something shown in one of these videos seems unsafe, it is up to you to make the appropriate changes to protect yourself.t yourself.

Пікірлер: 319

@justin_ray Жыл бұрын

I really appreciate how transparent you are about the business and what you are doing in the shop.

@justplaintommy63 Жыл бұрын

I always viewed these videos as a way to teach someone how to do something. A modern day way to pass on a trade to new, and up-n-coming people. Changing the layout of your shop to streamline your ability to crank out a little more work, a little faster and easier, is just being efficient. I was excited to see you pull the old forge out, because you know what you're doing. Thanks for the video

@GnarledIron Жыл бұрын

As someone who has dreamed of becoming a blacksmith since i was little, i've really come to rely on people like him to teach me "Tricks of the trade", because sadly i dont have many outlets where im from for blacksmithing knowledge.

@peaceleader7315 Жыл бұрын

Hmmmm...

@JackPinesBlacksmithing Жыл бұрын

As a Patron, now you know why I don’t watch your videos via Patreon very often. If you were to retire from blacksmithing today, I’d happily continue to say how much I gained from what you’ve given us. There are new generations (even from old guys like me) who can be tracked back to you as our teacher. So, I’m here to keep the algorithm happy and support you as long as you’re willing to produce content. As for holding you to prior statements, those were different times. One huge mistakes many make is to believe things shouldn’t change. Change is the only constant. And growth requires recognition of that change. As a Patron, I was happy to just support you as I’m also an idealist. However, I don’t blame you for moving with the change of times and I look forward to seeing what shows up only on Patreon.

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

Thank you for your thoughtful comments.

@kristenmoser7062 Жыл бұрын

My husband calls you Grandpa Forge, you're his role model and inspiration! Currently getting his own workshop together thanks to you.

@bigpapaskinner2854 Жыл бұрын

You are completely right I run a construction business but I love blacksmithing. Now if I devoted all my time to blacksmithing I would be a poor man. I'm not anywhere on your level. So construction it is and blacksmithing is a really fun hobby. Thank you for all that you do

@howardrichburg2398 Жыл бұрын

I was in the same boat a few months ago. I was a wildlife biologist. Retired at the end of last January. Spent more time I tbe smithy in the last 2 months than the previous 6. Love it. Only sold one steel striker but have some inventory now. I love my shop time and my arms are not hurting because I'm getting i to shape. More consistent hammer time.

@brandonburdette7895 Жыл бұрын

🇺🇸Jhon I just wanted to say thank you for all you do everything changes with time and we all have to adapt to it or be left behind

@FireCreekForge Жыл бұрын

These are great points that are often overlooked, and something we don't usually try to explain to the occasional snide comment that gets made in the KZfaq comment section... Another thing that has to be factored in is the hundreds of hours it takes to refine and perfect your craft. In any other job people expect raises and recognition for their years at a place of employment; I'm often amazed at people's attitude towards the traditional crafts, as if we can feed our families just on the passion and good feelings for the trade... Of course on the other hand there are the wonderful clients that appreciate our work and support it accordingly! As far as KZfaq, yes, there are lots of videos we could make that wouldn't get views, and that's just not sustainable for reasons you mentioned. Finding the balance between videos that will be worthwhile and still "stay true" to your vision is a challenge. Great video.

@vandengaaskjolen1821 Жыл бұрын

Every time I mention that I’ve started blacksmithing/bladesmithing people always say “have you seen Black Bear forge on KZfaq?”

@GlennFrazeeYT Жыл бұрын

As I've gotten older, it's become clear to me that people who complain about prices have 1.) never run a business, and 2.) never actually made anything that someone would consider buying. The proliferation of cheap stuff from overseas doesn't help matters either. Those who know what quality is because they live and breathe it will always understand why it costs extra. Keep up the good work 👍

@johnlcallaway Жыл бұрын

I had a good chuckle over your comment about people unsubscribing because you removed the coal forge. I watch to see you forge and learn from it, I don't care how the metal gets hot. I love that you used all the methods, I don't have a coal forge or induction heater, and it's always interesting to see why you use a particular method. But my real interest is to watch you form metal. I'll probably never have a power hammer, but that doesn't mean I can't figure out how to do something on the anvil that you did in the hammer. The same is true of the coal forge and induction heater. Regardless, I really enjoy your videos and appreciate the time you put into them. Today's video repeated what I've seen other makers state, diversify income sources. Very few get rich off of you tube monetization. I think I'll look into zarta and I think it is very smart of you to include it.

@colinfrench3776 Жыл бұрын

Hi John. I apreciate your work. Blacksmithing is blacksmithing, no matter how you heat up the metal. You are helping to keep the art alive all over the world. Well done and thanks for the buisness insight.

@davidlansing1870 Жыл бұрын

Happy Easter! Thank you for reminding the KZfaq world that just because you choose to share your knowledge & skills with the public that you are not publicly funded. You're free to do what you need to. The world is not entitled to control you. Thanks for continuing to be willing to give of your time.

@RT-iy9pu Жыл бұрын

Would be cool to add as a perk the ability to download the videos. Maybe catalogue them and then offer them to paid subscribers. The wealth of knowledge is massive. I would gladly pay to have access to all of the videos outside of youtube.

@ricktalerico893 Жыл бұрын

John, thank you for the insight into your business. I run a woodworking business and people never understand that our shop rate in not what myself or my guys get paid.

@Jarvis30 Жыл бұрын

20% here, watched to the end 👍🏼 You mentioned dental bills but there is also the overhead of fatigue or injury as you experienced a couple yeats back. 6 months off could take someone right out of the business if they are not established and some security in place yet.

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

That injury certainly had some long term effect. Not so much physical, but I fell out of the habit of getting into the shop early in the morning and started doing more computer work .

@TimothyDyck Жыл бұрын

Thanks John for taking the time to share/educate in this area. The struggle is very real., KZfaq vs keeping the food on the table. Keep the forge lit! 🔥

@johnjude2685 Жыл бұрын

Just don't over burden yourself. Don't burn out. We need you. I'm hopeful to have your wisdom in my future, and more importantly this is your retirement years. John doesn't forget that safety has had to keep many Smiths and want to be with many bodies still safe. BlackSmith don't use belows sin Thanks again, we have you

@timocsutube Жыл бұрын

While I could just sit back and absorb your knowledge for free, I don't. I have been both a Patreon supporter and now a channel member for over 2 years now. The way I look at it , I am getting real value from you, I have no problem paying for that value. I have run businesses and know the work needed to do so. I watch til tthe end on most, I repeatedly watch projects I am trying, adding them to the ever growing BBF playlist... I look forward to whatever you put out for us, including the cool drone videos of the Beulah area! Thank You Sir!!

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for the support, it really does make a difference.

@hoodoo9185 Жыл бұрын

Just wanted to say that your videos are what inspired me to get a small gas forge and an old worn down anvil that hasn't been used since probably 1920 and to start tinkering in smithing. Anything you chose to share with us is a blessing and I always look forward to your next project no matter what it is. Even ones like today's is great and informative, so you keep doing you and we'll keep watching! Thank you for your time, and as always, I'll be watching for the next one.

@derekhughes9274 Жыл бұрын

Thankyou John, nothing ever stays the same, but it always stays good.

@Bblacksmith 8 ай бұрын

I plan to open a small local forge. It was very interesting to listen to you, thank you. Making videos is a very difficult task for me, but I understand how important it is.

@Fishyflabs 2 ай бұрын

I'm new but not new to your videos. Never saw it as side gig but more so as a hobby! Appreciate the work you put into these tutorials!

@oxhornsupporter985 Жыл бұрын

This isn't really relevant to the video, but I just bought my first forge. I dug through some old magazines and it looks to me like it's a Canedy-Otto Chicago Forge no. 153, which is a lightweight portable forge. It's been a bit of a challenge, I had to make a new belt for the pulley that drives the fan, then the fan blades weren't turning so I had to go and oil it every day, but it's getting there and I hope by the weekend I might start my first fire. I don't believe I would have ever had the ambition to actually do it without your channel, John, so, thanks! I for one am happy to follow the channel whatever direction you take it.

@stephenpadilla4086 10 ай бұрын

Thank you for taking the time to do this! As a beginner smith, this is stuff I need to know. I also hope it helps people understand how small business actually works.

@thornwiese3700 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for being a true inspection my wife bought me my fist forge last Christmas and you have become a daily watch for me and you have become as big an inspiration to me as Alton Brown 💜 Thank you so much!

@rkaag99 Жыл бұрын

hey, i'm 59yo IT desk jockey....backyard clown black smith. what you just presented could have been a whole semester in a college. when i get working again i will try to show you appreciation. for now all i can do is thumbs up and comment

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

Just watching and commenting really does help

@robertoswalt319 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing this information about the true costs of running a business. Happy Easter

@z0mb13h0rd3 10 ай бұрын

John, Honestly, I think this is one of your best videos yet! It takes a lot to admit when we’ve said (or done) something short sighted or foolish. Wanting to provide content to people a handful of years ago for “free” was neither in my opinion, but rather a generous offer to the public to further the craft you obviously love. Running a business is work in itself as you so well point out, and it is a shame we have to monetize our time so. But it is what it is. So I thank you for all you do, and I look forward to being able to chip in once my revenue stream normalizes again. You have inspired me many times over, and I can’t thank you enough. Meanwhile, I will continue to watch videos to the end, and I’m not sure why some 70% don’t, they are missing out. -John

@ewsblacksmithing Жыл бұрын

If you made a set of dvds with in depth how to info and things like that, I would add that to my collection of stuff. Love what you do. And as for the coal forge, I'm here to watch and learn and no matter what forge you use, the steel getting hot, doesn't do much when trying to learn the techniques on forging. Keep doing what your doing, a lot of us are here for the long haul

@mylesmason6768 Жыл бұрын

Exactly!

@kevg3320 Жыл бұрын

Stayed to the end, can't wait for the book to be published!! 😉

@ericcartrette6118 Жыл бұрын

Great information! I hated that you removed the coal forge. But you have to do what is best for your business. Like you said in that video, sometimes it isn't easy to find good coal. While I love using good coal, I find myself using my gas forge quite a bit lately. It's just easier to get the fuel.

@mdlanor5414 Жыл бұрын

The way things are going with the insanity around the Earth. I wouldn’t put it past certain US States making it illegal to burn Coal for any reason

@Moondog-wc4vm Жыл бұрын

I was heartbroken to see the coal forge moved out of the shop. I'm far more used to using a coke forge than a propane one, but it's the march of progress. It won't be long before using a coke or coal forge is just uneconomical, and not long after that that it becomes illegal. Gas will also be demonised at some point. The real problem I can see in the future is that electricity is so expensive and large capacity induction forges are so expensive that hobbyists like myself will simply be priced out even attempting to forge steel. Not long after that even the professional smiths will be able to make any kind of profit from their business, even if they diversify their income streams. Even the spectre of the day when there are no more smiths gives me a cold chill down my spine.

@mdlanor5414 Жыл бұрын

@@Moondog-wc4vm I wrote a similar comment. I didn’t see your comment. Before I had written mine and posted it. I’m sorry and didn’t mean to somewhat plagiarize what you wrote. I absolutely agree with you

@Moondog-wc4vm Жыл бұрын

@@mdlanor5414 No worries!

@AtholIronworks Жыл бұрын

I don't mind helping out. I've found so much value in your videos and have been a viewer for years. Thank you, your contribution to the blacksmithing community is immeasurable. I'm all looking forward to see what the future holds.

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

Awesome, thank you!

@lars2you Жыл бұрын

Very informative video. I wouldn't have missed a second of it! Thank you for showing the realistic business side of things.

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful!

@ScrolledAgain Жыл бұрын

I fully support you with whatever you want to do, I don't think I'll ever get the chance to blacksmith the way I envisioned in the "yeah I can do everything I wanna do" days of youth, but your content lets me live that dream through viewing. It's relaxing to me to have your videos on as I go through my work day, just hearing the sounds of metal being worked is lovely.

@danp3796 Жыл бұрын

Thank you John for taking the time to explain to your followers what your thoughts are. I started in this craft as a stress relief hobby about 5 years ago (I'm a mechanic) and I have watched you and Roy and have basically taught myself everything (after taking a weekend course from David Robertson , Ontario , Canada)from just watching your videos. I'm sorry I don't have extra money to help pay for your work but I will watch everything you put out to hopefully add to your ratings. Once again, Thank You.

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

You are very welcome

@Aco747lyte Жыл бұрын

I love your channels, but always like and share them whenever I can with my friends, *and* let the ads run because YT will be financially supportive of you through ads watched. (While they run, I'll be making a brew), but I appreciated all you said about then monetary side of running your business, factoring in the all-important overheads, only because I'm a business gal myself. Thank you for all you have taught me and my daughter! ❤ We enjoy all your three channels immensely, and we take the time to do so. Wishing you all the very best and happy Easter, Wendi 🌻

@zombiemaster123456 Жыл бұрын

Watching or i should say producing this kind of content for us to watch. Is just as important as the actual blacksmithing videos. This kind of video allows us the viewer to see what you are thinking. An allows us to see behind the scene thought process.

@wesleymccravy901 Жыл бұрын

I appreciate all you do for the community! Even every time you aren't getting paid to plug up a battery for a wireless mic. I closed my shop doors, but you were a HUGE influence, encourager, and inspiration during a tough time of life. Now I am married to the mother of my two children, happy with my work, I love myself, I take pride in my accomplishments and my blessings... I am a fulfilled man and equipped to always be my best. Thanks for being a part of who I am. Wesley McCravy

@BrassCatcher365 9 ай бұрын

I've always been interested in metalworking and your channel has inspired me to dip my toes in the water, who knows it might end up being the one hobby that sticks. Thanks for your content and your character.

@allentonelli8395 6 ай бұрын

Absolutely love your demeanor …. Calm , precise, and extremely informative. I believe I’m going to start forging my own products, and I have to thank for it.

@DjeehBear Жыл бұрын

Thank you John for offering so much to this community. Deeply grateful for your work. Inspired me to start hammering some hot steel!

@bob9341 Жыл бұрын

Hello John, Keep in mind their are people (like me) who just appreciate the way you present your material and the thought process that goes behind it. Some of your videos aren't about what i am interested in doing, but I know that I can gain some insight just by watching it. I don't subscribe and watch for an algorithm, I watch because YOU find something interesting and that makes it interesting for me. Even your mistakes (not that you make any! LOL) help me so I learn from them. Keep doing what you want to do and have fun with it! It's great to see someone have a passion about their work.

@swblacksmith.7445 Жыл бұрын

Hi John, I liked your talk on business and profitability, it provided food for thought. Over time I've matured as a youtube viewer, realising that it costing me money in data just to watch my favourite blacksmithing channels. One thing that quickly turns me away is long videos that laboriously show every shigle hammer that went into the project. Anyway, thats my two cents worth. I'll finsh by saying I'm a big fan of your channel, I've learned a lot from you over the years and I reaaly like your style as a blacksmith and youtube creator. Wishing you every sucsess moving forward. Kind regards. SW

@lancemillward2462 Жыл бұрын

good to hear some behind the scenes

@DennisderDoenner Жыл бұрын

Hey John! Thanks a lot for having us last week! we safely made it to the East Coast by now. Your videos inspire people all over the world and we could tell how passionate you are about it, I hope you can continue with your passion as long as possible.. Greetings Jan,Petr and Dennis

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

It was great to meet the three of you. Glad you're making steady process, enjoy the Atlantic portion of the flight.

@1noryb Жыл бұрын

Thanks John, Looking forward to where the videos are going. I definitely understand the day job gets the most attention and then the moonlighting gets the leftovers.

@T3_forge Жыл бұрын

Your videos are always so impressive. And I can almost see a roof through the woods. No I’m not a stocker I just happen to live close by.

@PHILWORX Жыл бұрын

Thank you for the content. I also love seeing my drawer handle in the background. 2nd from bottom alligator twist. People don’t understand how expensive it is to do what you do stay profitable and make videos for us when you can thank you again❤

@meatball1974 Жыл бұрын

You are an absolute fountain of knowledge. I've learned an incredible amount from you. Thank you for continuing to give us access on all the various platforms. And even taking the time to interact on the comments when we have the odd question or clarification. Sitting through an ad is a very small price to pay for this kind of access. But I have to ask... What's a Deeveedee? I'm kidding, I'm late 40's... just found it humourous.

@baelgrum9181 Жыл бұрын

I stumbled upon your channel with a KZfaq search for blacksmithing for beginners and so far, I have not been disappointed. You have so much rich and informing content here that I haven’t really explored too many other channels, I just come right back here because you’ve had a video for every one of my questions. Great channel, great host, great info!

@tylerolson6247 Жыл бұрын

Sounds like this is in response to some silly folks complaining!!! Always happen to watch what you produce, I always learn something new. Keep up the great work! You sticking to doing what you love to do while being a normal human who has other commitments in life makes me like your videos that much more.

@robertlamb7513 Жыл бұрын

It is your channel not ours you do you there will be people like me that watch your videos because they would love to do blacksmithing but do not have a place or the money to do it the way they want to do it so keep making videos the way you want I will keep watching

@frankward709 Жыл бұрын

Good talk Being a self employed known in your own business For many years it's hard to explain to people Thanks for the video

@billshipley9027 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for helping us understand how a Blacksmith business might work for us and or just how we can be semi serious about making some extra money doing nice projects and or simple projects that also make extra money. I for one appreciate your videos.

@bjh4970 Жыл бұрын

Evolving is part of life. I have learned SO much from you here and I’m grateful for both the project videos (I made a fire striker from one of your videos yesterday in fact!) AND straight-talk videos like these; thank you for the time you put into them and helping me start down this blacksmithing road 👍

@geneticdisorder1900 Жыл бұрын

Being a self employed plumber, I know exactly what you’re saying.

@JeffSearust Жыл бұрын

Love to see a video of looking through that steel order. And a look through the steel pile in general... What you're buying just to "have" for the shop.

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

Will do!

@pekkahiltunen609 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for good videos, I am from Finland, and I am thinking to do blacksmithing to make my living,. I am unemployed and it's very difficult to find a job because my age is over 50.I watch these videos to learn blacksmithing and English language 😊❤️

@dblizz68 Жыл бұрын

I understand the time incolved in making content. I've made a few videos for KZfaq. It is time intensive and editing cuts a lot out. I've had 2 hrs plus of filming that didn't have 5 minutes of good footage. I know you get better with experience and know what works better for video. Most of us appreciate what you do and understand that you're making a living with your trade. If KZfaq content diminishes then so be it. I for one will watch how ever much or little you put on. Thank for what you do.

@PogyForge Жыл бұрын

Glad to be a part of the 20-30%

@robsonsantosOSO Жыл бұрын

I identify very much with your situation and understand your needs perfectly. I thank you for making your work available here on KZfaq and I wish you success!😎

@bigrich1356 10 ай бұрын

Woo hoo, i made it to the top 20% by watching the whole video. I really learn a lot from all your videos, especially these business related videos. As someone who’s wanting to step out in faith and pursue a career in blacksmithing, I really appreciate content like this. Thank you for all you do

@BlackBearForge 10 ай бұрын

Thanks for sticking around

@iraqiforever3665 Жыл бұрын

My ears with your explanation..and my eyes to your beautiful farm .. like from IRAQ❤

@candymountainforge Жыл бұрын

Didn't realize the evolution of your mighty mustache over the years 😂 Always look forward to hearing on the business side of the forge, I need all the advice I can get and I trust your experience!

@TheBottegaChannel Жыл бұрын

Please take us on that journey of preparing for the hand tool conference. I for one am interested in seeing what products you make for it. Might make for some exellent videos on how to make our own tools!

@timberanvil3788 Жыл бұрын

A genuine treasure of KZfaq! Keep up the great work Sir!

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

Thank you kindly!

@mikelastname Жыл бұрын

Great tips for those of us who are thinking to make our hobbies self funding. Love the content, and keep doing what you are doing, it is most appreciated.

@spudhut2246 Ай бұрын

watched it to the end. I became a subscriber. Thanks for putting it all out there. You have to do that, being transparent is good and honest, especially these days. Thank you again!

@BlackBearForge Ай бұрын

Thanks for the sub!

@jeffreyjones6409 Жыл бұрын

You touched on many interesting subjects in this one. For fun and personal education, I have tried to make some videos of myself blacksmithing. People don't realize that it isn't that easy. Granted I don't have the greatest video equipment but man it is a challenge to try and make something that doesn't look like my 2-year-old grandson was doing it. My hat is off to you sir for everything and every time you post on you tube. Keep us up to date on the goings on in your shop as I find it very informative.

@jameswert1308 11 ай бұрын

I am trying to get started in blacksmithing as a hobby and a little side income. I love your videos. They are so educational and easy to follow. Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into them.

@BlackBearForge 11 ай бұрын

Glad to help

@albertgoetz4474 Жыл бұрын

Your channel is giving me the confidence to start my journey. Thank you.

@Einfach_Max93 Жыл бұрын

Hello John. Thank you for all the information you are sharing. As a beginner Blacksmith, i like not only the produktion videos but also find the ones where you talk about your thoughts and the decisions very inspiring and helpfull to build my own mindset. Fore example the coalforge video inspired me to completly change my shop layout an it turned out to be so much more fun to be in my shop now. So thank you very much. I hope you and your family have a beatifull easter weekend. Greetings from Germany Max Ps: sorry for my bad writing havent writen in english fore a long time

@jeffcrawford5359 Жыл бұрын

Very insightful and informative. Answered a lot of questions that have been bouncing around inside my head. Thank you! HAPPY EASTER

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

Same to you!

@manifesto8159 Жыл бұрын

I'm a solo father of two little kids.... limited time and tight budget...my forge is a wicker basket and home made refractory cement under a tent....might as well be third world over here lol. I'm a blue collar guy and I can't even find coal for sale in my area let alone blacksmithing classes....That said I've learned soo much from your channel I appreciate you taking the time to post these videos more than you know!!! Thank you for the free encyclopedia of blacksmithing you've already posted online!!! Us poor hobby Smith's love your channel!!!!

@irbadger Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for all of your videos, you are a great teacher and also very inspiring to get out there and try. Very much appreciated!

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

You are very welcome

@surlycanadian 11 ай бұрын

I think a curated online course broken up into a few “semesters” would be very cool

@lightprint348 Жыл бұрын

Thankyou for your videos and you clarity. you have improved my smithing and thinking around smithing , very grateful.

@paceywickham3694 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for what you're doing John, we appreciate the videos so much. You've gotta do what makes the most sense for your business. Make that work so you can keep making videos.

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

I appreciate that

@richardhazell2601 Жыл бұрын

You speak a lot of sense John. Very informative. Many thanks.

@toddcaldwell5614 11 ай бұрын

All of your videos are welcome information . If it is a new project or information on the business , they are always informative and a great learning tool . Because of that I follow your channel more than any other blacksmith on you tube . Always look forward to new videos and still catching up on the older ones

@BlackBearForge 11 ай бұрын

I appreciate that!

@mikewarfel7511 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the cost run down, that was helpful

@steveRBForge Жыл бұрын

I would buy a DVD, thanks to you I bought a forge and anvil. If you took the videos that you already have and organized them into a beginning blacksmith DVD I would buy one.

@blakewerner4368 Жыл бұрын

thank you sir, i always enjoy the chance to set in your shop, listen to some thoughtful explanations and easy to understand demonstrations. this was a goodun too, you may not of shown how to make something this time, but you left me with something new to think about...and like always your dialog was easy to follow.

@bunyanforgings7849 Жыл бұрын

I haven't commented in a long time. I would like to say that you've proven to be a real work horse as far as volume and consistancy of videos. There are quite a few guys who started making videos but have crapped out eventually. It's quite an achievement and likely under appreciated. That said l would like to say that l have learned the most from you and greatly appreciate your efforts. Cheers.

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

Thank you, your comment are greatly appreciated.

@dougrobins8291 Жыл бұрын

When I retired, I considered joining the local blacksmith guild. However, living in the suburbs there was no chance of building a forge, or clanging on metal... I bought a big lathe and for more than 10 years, have enjoyed learning to use it well, much like the adventure you show in these videos. Thanks for producing them, and also for explaining your business.

@Bangalangs Жыл бұрын

Happy Easter sir. Glad to see the decision to take down the coal forge is working out. I was hoping that would smooth out your workflow. Thanks for the talk about operating costs and overhead costs. I’m getting to the point where I’d like to start selling some more things, and working out prices has been a challenge. Another excellent video.

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it

@TheVideoGameVault Жыл бұрын

Appreciate the honest advice and explanation of your business and channel.

@user-wi3ox4hr4o Жыл бұрын

Thanks John for sharing various aspects of blacksmithing, including the business side. I really enjoy watching your videos, and they are an immense help for a beginning back yard blacksmith like myself.

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

Thanks 👍

@bennyhill3642 Жыл бұрын

All's well Mr John😇😁😇

@ArcanePath360 10 ай бұрын

I find that the best time to buy a whole bunch of steel is yesterday. Here in Europe prices of everything goes up daily. It's getting insane.

@thomaspospiech6764 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and ideas.

@olddawgdreaming5715 Жыл бұрын

Happy Easter to you and your family John. Thanks for sharing this video with us. We wish you the best and enjoy watching your videos and hope to continue in the future. Stay safe and continue the great videos here on youtube. Fred.

@jeffmerschdorf5812 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for all your effort I really enjoy watching your channel. Your quite the inspiration and I just purchased my first forge so now the fun begins.😁👍🏽

@ShootingUtah Жыл бұрын

I've tried hobby selling forged stuff on Etsy and the biggest problem is other makers charging less than material cost for their products! I've never understood this but apparently there's a ton of people out there willing to lose money making things that take a decent amount of skill to make.

@torbjornahman Жыл бұрын

Good explanations and insights! Useful info for anyone thinking of starting their own business.

@BlackBearForge Жыл бұрын

Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the video.

@avmech2126 Жыл бұрын

Once again, well done! John, your videos are all educational covering all aspects. How you are running your business gives a lot of insight to life in general. Still working, should be retired……..currently own my own business (aircraft maintenance) but am spooling up to have a small welding business in retirement and stating to look at blacksmithing to go with it. Have learned a lot from your videos. Keep up the good, informative work.

@garrettshadbolt6443 Жыл бұрын

Love your work and your transparency! My suggestion would be to keep on with the short blacksmithing instructional videos, you’re a great teacher! I wouldn’t be afraid to remake a technique either new is new. Keep up the great content!

@CaptainTwitchy Жыл бұрын

You’ve really come a long way in your videography and storytelling, John. Still very enjoyable to watch! I also wouldn’t concern yourself with the ones pissed about the coal forge, I bet most of them don’t forge once a month. The tools don’t make the artist