I’m continuing to work at modeling projects in Sketchup so that blacksmithing might have more a a presence in the 3D Warehouse. There was already a cone mandril (sp) at http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/details?mid=558c840370f0b1c0ba50ac9405bdcf2a&prevstart=0
So, I decided to add a version with a tong slot. Check it out at
That reminded me that the Saltfork Craftsmen group is offering a new mandrel at what seems to me to be a reasonable price. I haven’t used one and I’m not sure how heavy they are. More information at
Very heavy snow kept me from getting to the shop for several days so I used that time for blacksmithing related computer work. Usually I’m not delighted by snow storms but we are nearly desperate for water in any form to relieve the drought.
