Beginning setup questions
Hi all! I’m new to blacksmithing and have taken a couple classes so far. Made a knife and a chefs knife and am in love with the hobby. I am working on making my own setup in my back yard but wanted some input if possible! I’ve read a few books and watched lots of YouTube videos, but am trying to come up with a list of must haves. I already have an anvil, forge, tongs, and some of the PPE (respirator, ear protection).
As far as what I still need, I know the list is quite large, but a big question is what kind of eye protection are you all using? I’ve read about things like shatterproof glass googles but I can’t seem to find a pair that aren’t cheap plastic looking? I plan on getting an angle grinder at some point so I want some that are pretty beefy because I’m terrified of those lol I have also found some various gloves for use when quenching and I’ve read a lot that it’s good to have them be large so you can fling them off if things go south. I’ve had a hard time finding gloves that are women’s sizes so I’m assuming men’s gloves being larger would work for this purpose? I’ve never worn gloves when actually forging, only for things like quenching for the obvious reasons there. Do you all recommend using them all the time?
Last question for now (I have a ton but I am trying to get everything set up in manageable chunks) - It is super hard to find fully natural fiber pants, do you all recommend any brands in particular? Every set of women’s pants I find have some amount of polyester or synthetic fabric. I had heavily debated the blacksmithing kilts (even my mentor wears one), but having the bottom of my legs sticking out gives me anxiety with all that hot metal and potentially dropping it especially while in early learning.
I appreciate all of your time!!!