ONE WAY TO GET YOUR START IN BLACKSMITHING!!!

Hope you enjoy this very different episode I filmed before my little trip away for blade show!
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My name is Alec Steele and I am a 20 year old blacksmith from Norfolk in the United Kingdom. I upload a vlog from my day at the workshop almost every single day. Lots of sparks, lots of making, lots of fantastic-ness. Great to have you here following along!
What do I make? LOTS of Damascus steel, knives, swords, axes and more and of course, I always love hearing your suggestions for future projects in the comments below!
So if you want to see lots of forging fun, blacksmithing badassery, cinematic hammering and more in my Daily Vlog (#Daily_Steele) - please subscribe here by hitting that red button!
FACEBOOK PAGE / alecsteeleblacksmith
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Music by www.epidemicsound.com/
Alec Steele Blacksmith 2018

[@Kris_at_WhiteOaksFarm]

Young man, I could have used this talk, about fifty years ago. I managed to muddle through life in a good way, and now I'm retired and putzing with Blacksmithing, Gardening, and Cabinetmaking. Also cooking and so many other things that make me happy, just to do. Thank you for reminding me to listen to the experts, and to do. Just, do, what makes me happy.

[@goldminer1772]

And i hope that you follow through with that and keep going! we're all here to back you up

[@dilloncwwaters4442]

Never too old

[@MrHighRaw]

If your in the UK then you can train up in Hereford. There is a blacksmithing college there, I trained there myself in the early 2000's.

[@warrick7689]

Hey old timer, you bought yourself a nice traeger for that cooking yet? Best decision I ever made.

[@1320crusier]

Advice that applies to every craft/trade/hobby right here.

[@Tondadrd]

Well, when you program, you can sweep the floor, bring coffee, but it is not part of the programming. Except for that bit, probably yes

[@ultrarunner0476]

i was going to say the same thing. this attitude is why I am in dental school right now.. (and should be studying for my board exam tomorrow morning)

[@turniptheshade4439]

"Get a teacher"

[@daario4278]

Nah

[@digitaIgorilla]

If you can focus on becoming the best blacksmith you can, others will be calling you one long before you're prepared to use the title yourself.

[@HochstartHarry]

Very true, I am a professional welder (by no means perfect) and on the first day of my new job the boss told me in a quiet minute that I am the best welder in his shop 😂 I'm 19 😂😂

[@samuellogan8588]

I'm 16 and have been black smithing since I was 11 I wouldn't class my self as a blacksmith but as a young kid tinkering around but I have 80 year old farmers who have seen real blacksmiths at work calling me the young blacksmith down the road and sending people to me to get stuff fixed hopefully some time in the future I might class my self as a blacksmith

[@Logosfollower]

Samuel Logan it’s been a year do it already

[@andrewyork3869]

That can be super akward at times....

[@BrandonPrentice]

As a high school shop teacher who's curious about starting forging...your philosophy on teachers and having a proper student-teacher relationship is completely on point. My worst days as a teacher is trying to motivate myself to inspire a student who doesn't want to ask me the right questions or show interest in challenging themselves. Cheers!

[@dragonherald]

Flight instructor here as well, worst days are spent with the students who don’t want to be there and just wanna spend mommy and daddy’s money. Best days are where I get a student as passionate as myself regardless of whether they almost kill me in an airplane that day.

[@DiesInEveryFilm]

So basically you need someone to come sweep up your workshop 😉

[@fe02lix]

Yes he need

[@fe02lix]

And one more thing reeeeee

[@frankbliss2924]

To watch him work and learn from Alec I'd sweep his shop, and mop it too 🤷

[@DiesInEveryFilm]

@@frankbliss2924 it was a joke mate, id happily sweep up for anyone with knowledge I wanted to learn.

[@frankbliss2924]

@@DiesInEveryFilm oh my gosh no way?! 😂😂

[@dynaroth8912]

This motivational speech you gave in this video can be applied to anything that anyone wants to accomplish! Never give up, give your best and never stand in your own way!

[@Exayevie]

Alec, I recently went to a touristy, historic farm in my area and they had a blacksmith set up there. We got to talking, and he told me once a year in the fall, the historic society puts on a FREE one-day blacksmithing class for eight people who inquire early enough. They do it so they can make enough knick-knacks to sell at the Hunter's Moon festival in October. Needless to say, I'm now SO excited to try blacksmithing hands on for the first time ever, in a couple months. And I just want to thank you because if it weren't for your videos, I would've just watched the guy - never would've "got to talking" or learned about this amazing opportunity. So thank you thank you thank you for having such contagious enthusiasm!

[@AlecSteele]

Hell yes!!!

[@YYCEyeGuyGord]

You know, the advice in this video is definitely applicable for nearly any craft, any profession - ask the right questions, know you'll suck at the onset, etc etc. Sure glad I'm subscribed to your channel, Alec; learn so much, and not just about blacksmithing - even though that isn't my profession, you learn from everyone, eh? Have a fantastic week, young man, keep on kicking ass and chewing bubble gum! 🖖✌️😁

[@imk2007]

He does look like Duke Nukem doesn't he

[@ManCrafting]

Go to the Blade Show. Buy a Grinder, a Hydraulic Press, a few hammers, tongs , an anvil, and a forge. Solid beginner set up. ;-)

[@outdoorsy01]

what he should have said

[@SkylordAz]

If you don't have the knowledge and skill to use your tools then you won't be able to use those tools effectively. You should learn from the ground up slowly acquiring tools as you're ready for them. There are so many people who buy all the tools and then never actually make anything. Or if they do they could've done a better job if they learned with the basics.

[@Mercenary_32]

LOL 😂

[@ManCrafting]

lol

[@ManCrafting]

Kind of a joke between Alec and I. ;-)

[@olivefabien5376]

I really like the way you talk to young people. And most, the way you talk in general, I'm French and you are the first one I can understand 90% Watching your video I learn English and blacksmithing ^^ What you said in this video is working for everything, not only blacksmithing. If 10 years ago somebody has spend 10 min to tell me that.. I think young peoples needs to be drive sometime and it's good from you to do that.

[@nepsyh]

Same thing I would say)

[@adamhuckstep7091]

"What you said in this video works* for everything, not only blacksmithing. If only * 10 years ago somebody had* spend 10 min to tell me that.. I think young people* need* to be driven* sometimes* and it's good for* you to do that." Saw this an just thought i'd help with your English. I agree with the comment by the way !!

[@jrcoopr]

had spent* 10 min....

[@ja4120]

Pretty good English here my friend! Don’t be discouraged by people correcting your grammar. Even people who only speak English, myself certainly included, fail to speak it perfectly.

[@felixden3306]

je suis heureux d'être tombé sur cette vidéo et ce commentaire, c'est un réel boost au niveau mental d'entendre cela et de voir des personnes dans la même démarche quand on cherche ça voie !

[@darkknight8666]

This video was so helpful to me! I'm at this very stage now. I found a nearly retired smith over some 40+ years, willing to train me 1 on 1, for a cost that is very small to start. I have heard from many haters today on social media and then from you, Alec Steele. You are truly my greatest inspiration.

[@Stagio]

In the army we have a saying: Proper Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance AKA... PRACTICE!

[@bladebarrett584]

Jeremy Michael Stage my football coach says the same thing

[@Stagio]

Blade Barrett Well then, Sounds like you might win a game or two!

[@ironfae]

In the Navy we used to say “If at first you don’t succeed, you’re probably a soldier. Thank God for sailors.” 😂😂😂

[@osmacar5331]

i like that XD

[@prototype0237]

The seven P and the big P

[@zachariaszut]

That advice you gave applies to any field of craft. Handsomely handed too. Thanks.

[@tommorgan6665]

I'm 34, work in IT and just called my local Blacksmith...going to the forge on Thursday for a chat. Here goes nothing!

[@michaeldevlin5421]

How did the talk go?

[@fohbif7685]

well said! Humility and commitment are the key to many doors of life!!! But also: "Being idealistic is like shopping for a nervous breakdown" ;-) Love your channel

[@alt-bringer5198]

but in the same, "being a realist, is like having insureance against contentment" things may suck, things might be awesome or fun, but very rarely are you gona alow yourself to simply find balance, and be "okay" with something, and be able to leave it at that, youll be compelled to either tear it down, or exagerate the best is to have guarded hopes (raised but not lofty), reasonable expecations, temperd with personal growth ie, alec says "know your gonna suck (at first)", to add to that, (raised hopes) dont go in thinking your going to be a dismal failure, allow yourself to think youll do better than you expect, (but guarded) but dont expect "great things" (reasonable expectation) and finally dont allow yourself to fall into the trap of judging your future, by your product but by the amount of development you receive, wether your picking up well on your craft, or your learning about yourself in the process, focus not on that you did well or crappy, but that you have grown individually because of your efforts (personal growth)

[@fohbif7685]

"guarded hopes" yes!!!

[@Yandrax94]

Alec didnt said 'It's fantastic to have you here' at the begining :(

[@Tonicfly1337]

Right?!

[@ndzick718]

ok

[@bearwolfprojects8667]

I haven’t taken any classes because I don’t have the money everything I know ive gotten off youtube watching classes and blacksmiths teach im not the a master nor will i ever be but with my homemade forge and anvil im happily swinging my hammer at hot metal whenever i can

[@meneermankepoot]

Fun is one of the biggest motivators :D

[@MatBrown]

Mate I'd love to do some blacksmithing classes but the guy who ran some really great courses where I live - somewhere called "Barker Street", dunno if you've heard of him - moved out of the city and just does KZbin videos nowadays... ;)

[@AlecSteele]

Sorry ;)

[@MrBayoublue]

Lol too funny

[@genelomas332]

His new location isn't as far from Barker st as you might think.. and really, nowhere in the UK is all that far from anywhere else, it's not a huge island.. ;) I would like to see some of the 'class videos' Alec used to make.. I understand that the current business format he has going doesn't leave a lot of time to run classes, however, an employee could manage that aspect, and the class fees would cover that wage.. Importantly, people would watch them, and people would certainly want to take these classes.. hell, even to offer the chance to win a free class once in a while would drive interest in not only the channel, but the craft.. Alec is half my age, but has got his sh%t together so much more than I had at that age, and I would love to spend a day in the shop, just observing, (and making outstanding coffee), ok maybe swinging a sledge for him a bit too, but my commute from the east coast of Aus would inhibit that.. Perhaps next time I'm visiting my brother in Cov a class program may be in place.. one can hope.. :)

[@lord_kinbote3920]

I think the hardest part for me will be resisting the urge to laugh whenever someone says "peen".

[@imk2007]

"Peen"

[@charliebrown1134]

@@imk2007 hehe

[@awakaxis]

@@imk2007 hehe

[@ther3almr.cheesy600]

@@imk2007 hehe

[@milano9808]

@@imk2007 hehe

[@Dan_Kornfeld]

Very well spoken. People must realize that there is a difference between getting something wrong, and failing at something. To get something wrong, means that you have put in the effort and tried. It’s a learning experience. Failure, is nothing more than a lack of effort and just a general giving up.

[@hunterb412]

This counts as Anvil Time With Alec! You need to seriously make that a series!

[@nicad65]

Looking forward to my first blacksmithing class this early Fall! Beginner's tool making class... thanks for the inspiration, Alec!

[@tmber01]

Alec Steele, the instruction you offer in this video is so on point! The ideas of being the best student, asking the right questions, and actually practicing what the teacher suggests, etc., are the instructions of not only learning a trade/craft, but of life in general. Thank you for being such a student who has developed into a good teacher. Although I do not have a serious interest in becoming even a hobbyist blacksmith, I have enjoyed following your channel for more than 1½ years, and continue looking forward to future videos for years to come.

[@edburdo]

You can apply this advice to finding a mentor and learning anything. Thanks Alec!

[@ajaxmaye2520]

Why is Alec always such a pure innocent bean?! He's so freaking pure as hell! I just wanna hug him because of how adorable he is. I'm so glad that people like him with so much enthusiasm and passion exist and they deserve so much better!

[@broadusthompson1666]

Great video! I didn’t get this advise when I started and made the foolish choice of going it on my own, which has got me this far, but if I had instead looked for other blacksmiths near me instead of looking for an anvil I’d be so much farther ahead! I hope the other aspiring smiths watching this listen to you and go take a class.

[@onlym4airsoft645]

Hi Alec, I’m a fifty year old man. I’ve watched everything you put out. I am inspired and I am on my first beginners course 1st September 2018. Cannot wait. Keep up the great videos and advice. Russ

[@blaineheffington750]

Alec, Thank you so much for your pragmatic words of encouragement and wisdom. I'm an educator, and I love what you said about the dynamic between a student that really wants to learn and a teacher that is enthusiastic about what she or he has to share with others. I respect you and I appreciate your videos. Thanks again and again.

[@billbaggins]

Very wise advice from such a young old soul.👍self teaching has its merits but a good instructor will save soooooo much frustration

[@nesleyheiney3111]

“Practice your talk stuff” hahaha. I believe you may be on to something however anyone with an accent such as yours is mesmerizing to us Americans and it always sounds like your smart and super articulate.

[@thomasarussellsr]

Nesley Heiney bluh blug bluh with an accent is articulate? Alrighty then, cheers.

[@nesleyheiney3111]

I understood it perfectly lol. You spelled it well also.

[@mikeyduke10]

Just for the record as a brit, he has a very posh southern accent

[@Bartimus224]

is it Doise, or is it Nust

[@KnightessTTV]

Drew Barty the answer is yes

[@bran9380]

*DOINST*

[@genelomas332]

well, that's another T-shirt right there, hey Alec..? Maybe 2 shirts..

[@Stuk4s]

You have an immense power when talking. Seriously, you are a great person

[@j0hnn13K]

Great advice Alec. Now for a request, we've seen you make more complex knives and swords, and i do have a few i would love to see you make, but... by now those wouldnt be as big of a challenge anymore. So... i want to really challenge you, and have you make a fantasy piece, namely a item from Star Trek, a Klingon bat'leth out of damascus, not plate steel or else you could cheat and cut the shape out of a sheet of metal, and by "demanding" its a damascus build, you cant "cheat"!!! Harharhar :P

[@colinheyl7245]

My girlfriend and I went on a knife-making day class. It was fantastic. I'd love to be able to do it again sometime.

[@bronsonstephens5799]

I Love These Educational Videos. Can’t Get Enough of Them.

[@paganironworks3622]

This is so true and such great advice! I have a metal trade background but always wanted to learn the old school blacksmith art of it. I found a teacher in my area and drove 1.5hrs each way for a week to take a "tools to make tools" course. Same course you taught to him when he started. Best money I ever spent. I've been enjoying crafting ever since And he still answers my odd text when I get really stuck.

[@mihyfotomodel]

Bro, what u eat, cuz u have all the time this energy in your video... Wow! In every video!

[@samuelcoffman392]

What a great shirt you've got there. It was such an honor getting to meet you and talk with you I will get you your mosaic pin very soon

[@bradypoteet3102]

@Alec Steele, I have heard many of grand and motivating speaches or talks in my life thus far. When it comes to watching a video made by somebody I can look up to, it hits me pretty hard and puts a whole new perspective unto things. I love your work and as always, keep on keeping it on.

[@debbiebissel50]

Thank you ALEC and we'll said, I served an apprenticeship as a machinist in NO. LA. 1973-1977 and I almost became a pain in the ass too the journeyman machinist and most of them helped me along but a couple wanted me to learn just thru my mistakes only and even assisted me in failing. But taking pride in my work and applying craftsmanship that my father taught me I wore them down and they finally started to work with me.point is don't give up work with what you are given and take pride in yourself and in your craft. Thank you Jake Bissel

[@ClaytonwFirth]

Great advise. Thanks Alec.

[@leelyon6645]

This can be applied to any type of skill. I'm the head mechanic at the same shop a first apprenticed at. I wanted to learn everything I could and it got me to where I am now. But unfortunately I have had several guys come to work and they're just not into it, and it makes for a rough time for everyone.

[@thomasarussellsr]

Lee Lyon IKR? Half-hearted people bring everyone down. If you're not into it, find something else to do. It may take years to find a fit that inspires you, but when you do it is so worth the effort and time spent finding your passion.

[@black990ops]

This applies to everything in life, right now I'm fighting and pushing through to learn a computer related profession and also trying to make a distant relationship work and I want to thank you for this inspirational speech because although I'm not a blacksmith or aspiring to be one, this still got to me and motivated me!

[@randysmith106]

Thanks for the inspiration man!!! My oldest son will be turning 11 in a couple months and not only does he love you and watch all of your videos, he REALLY wants to learn how to blacksmith and asks me all the time to buy an anvil and build him a forge. So I am now in the process of searching for a beginner blacksmith course that I can sign him up for as a birthday present, and I'm going to take it with him! Thanks for all you do man and keep up the good work!

[@IamHere2468]

Hey,!! What about us old aspiring blacksmith!?

[@shatterednova5308]

Jachin Bateman 7:35

[@IamHere2468]

Nova_Freak he said young and not so young, Not old! XD

[@thomasarussellsr]

He addressed this in the video. Any age is a good time to find your passion. Passions may change over time and we must be willing to change to chase that new dream. If it is part-time at first, all the better. Just don't let your commitment to your present job wither too soon, it can ruin your reputation and affect your new venture. "Stay thirsty my friend".

[@IamHere2468]

Thomas Russell , thanks my friend, I realize this. I had a birthday so I was feeling Old, just a play on words.

[@thomasarussellsr]

Jachin Bateman well then... 🎶 HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU 🎶

[@Krommandant]

This talk applies to any line of work bruh.

[@ptdecker]

This is excellent general life advice---not just for blacksmithing. Thank you.

[@chrisvandermerwe2355]

Thanks Alec. I get bored with crafts very easily. I have done sculpting, molding and casting, woodworking, metal furniture making. So I love learning new skills and crafts. Which is why I have decided a while ago to learn a little bit of blacksmithing. Great advice. You really are an inspiration

[@bayfieldangler6746]

A jack of all trades. And master at none of them

[@danboyles1388]

Since I have already taken your evolution of tools class when do you want me to come over and start sweeping your floor?

[@Simo_-rv5dw]

Today only hand sanding but a lot of inspiration for me! : D

[@mattybrie]

I've watched a ton of blacksmithing videos and Alec Steele videos - and I think this is probably the most valuable one I've seen. Each sentence a nugget of wisdom.

[@TheJmatta5200]

Blacksmithing is the thing I fail at the most in my life but going to classes, finally succeeding at forging something keeps me coming back. Your videos and positivity just adds to my love of the craft

[@nikolasvassilicopoulos8266]

It’s the five Ps. Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance

[@jrh1175]

in Australia its the 6 Ps.... Proper Preparation Prevents Piss Poor Performance!!! lol

[@Brigadier9]

Proper Prior Planning and Preparation Prevents Piss Poor Performance.

[@Casedilla73]

Well that’s 7 P’s and an A.

[@christopherdavis7069]

That's a tongue twister

[@garthor]

Yay filler! do a damascus spork! =D

[@dogrimp3151]

I have a friend who is a blacksmith full time and he's willing to teach me a few things, so this was some good advice to hear!

[@donaldboudreau7469]

You are awesome Alec! As a teacher I found your comments about what makes the best students hit the nail on the head! I keep telling my husband to send me your videos so that I can show clips to my students about failure, perseverance, passion, integrity, work ethic and so many other things! Thank you for sharing your quest for knowledge!! Sincerely April from NS Canada

[@bryanessig8814]

Alec, I was so pleased to meet you at the Blade show. I did not want to take up your time when you were there to try to see some of the show. I wanted a picture with you but I could tell you were a bit busy with the show and the fans. At least I got a picture of you with the "thumbs up" and a good strong handshake. Next time though I will have to steal some of your time to talk a bit.

[@ShoeBakka1]

Bryan Essig I thought I saw him there.

[@stephensennott1317]

Hay Alec if you read this, I am the owner of a auto repair shop in Illinois USA just out side of chicago, and i very much enjoy watching you videos, what you just said on this video is what anyone how is looking to start a new craft need to hear, and sum oil timer need to under stand, i have been working in my line of work for 20 years and i still learn new thing often, there is always sum one how know more, we all need to know when to step back and learn a new way of doing thing, thank for the reminder

[@thomasarussellsr]

stephen sennott I know something you can still learn... And I'm not trying to be a smart-ass... English. Take a class my friend. Ask the instructor what is wrong with what you wrote above. Then apply what they tell you. Good luck in this new venture.

[@stephensennott1317]

Thomas Russell well I was home schooled and I also have dyslexia so deal with it,

[@sean_vanzz4680]

Taking My first blacksmithing course today. So excited!

[@christiandvs45]

Hey Alec, my friend and I have started forging and have learned so much from your videos. I wanted to thank you for what you taught us with them, keep swinging away!

[@CaptainDominic]

If you are in the UK I can reccomend the beginner and intermediate course at Herefordshire and ludlow college. And the dfs.the staff at the college are amazing

[@TimothyHall13]

Number one way: watch all Alec Steele content first.. then take his attitude towards challenge, the profit!!!!! Thanks Alec!

[@TimothyHall13]

I heard many references to being committed... Crazy, I got it!

[@penguinplague7229]

Alec, I want to thank you for this video because you’ve recently inspired me to start practicing the craft of black smithing. I’ve spent the past few months debating but recently I’ve started designing swords and other tools. This video is so helpful and I’m going to do exactly this. Thank you so much. You’re a true inspiration to me, keep up the good work!! Maybe done day I’ll see you at a convention or something! But again thank you, your claymore was badass and just made me want to be you.

[@boojum7913]

hey Alec me and a few of my friends are doing some blacksmithing. we started from ground 0 we learned a lot from you and many others on youtube. thankfully we knew we had to be careful and slow in order to do it safely. and thank you for unknowingly showing us the way.

[@OS-bv2li]

please make armour Alec i think it would be soo cool and the leather working oportunity is sooo goood!

[@Mercenary_32]

I wish I would have started Blacksmithing years ago. 😔

[@dj-d2030]

Bought your beginner class. Got most of the stuff together. Excited to get started

[@tartorus9729]

You are wise beyond your years. I stumbled onto your videos recently and enjoy them. Your enthusiasm and excitement are contageous. This advice is wonderful for any novices for any making. Keep up the amazing work!

[@mrimbusyt]

Awesome Job man i Like it 👌😀👍♥️

[@TonyMorel]

Yeah right sure. Google for learn black smithing in... oh, first result is for a class about a mile away. Wow, look at all the other classes they do. Oooh this could eat up a lot of my holiday allowance not to mention savings !

[@rockyhavens]

I have been attempting to put out work that makes me worthy of being called a blacksmith. Everything I have learned has been from shows, videos, research, and trial and error. Thank you Alec for your videos. I love to see the faces of my customers when I surprise them with my work. I wish I had the opportunity to go to a class, but through hard work and dedication I have had and will continue to have successes.

[@lukass.3627]

oh wow, actually only came in here because I was lvl up my blacksmithing in wow and became curious, but your whole "best student" part was so convincing and inspiring that I am considering it.

[@DrSimonCurtis]

Buy a burner!!!

[@AaronPowellvox]

:D

[@thomasarussellsr]

😃

[@minibigs5259]

Sam's Sam again!

[@hugonilsson6067]

I am thinking about buying a burner right now... I just got my taxreturns so I can finally afford it, now i just have to figure out if I am going to leave room for expansion or not...

[@hugonilsson6067]

Is it possible to buy a burner now Sam? I have tried to buy one from your website but it says it is out of stock... (1")

[@thevikingcookie]

When you'll make crossover video with Trollsky knifes ?

[@Ron3343]

Alec this is the BEST advice I have ever heard!!! It applies to any and every profession!! YOU are the "Mr. Mayagi of blacksmithing!!" As always Keep up the FANTASTIC work!!!!

[@dvaldiviez]

This is excellent information that applies to so much more than trying to become a Blacksmith. People should have passion and take pride in any Occupation/Skill they are trying to acquire. Well said Alec!

[@Grambo-qp4pp]

I want to be a master gardener

[@Hashbrownies40]

57Grambo57 I want to be a master baiter

[@Opinionator52]

Don't use the term good enough,,, until you understand what good enough actually "IS"...... ;o) O,,,

[@LanggerDangger]

Just rewatched this video. It helped me realize better what I have to accomplish my goals. Thank you.

[@chuckpechan]

Thanks Alec, I think this is great advice for many areas in life and can't wait to share with my son and daughter.

[@ryanwooldridge7546]

Where was this video 14 years ago?!?!

[@primosek1]

You said you needed to get better at talking? You need to get more talking points :) it was the same over and over, however spot on you have been. Enjoyed the sanding tho

[@RumMonkeyable]

Good advice, Alec, for all of us pursuing wherever our passions take us. Be the best you can be. Listen more and speak less. Don't let set-backs discourage you from keeping on trying. Respect your mentors/instructors. Be willing to be a mentor/instructor, when it's your turn to pass on the knowledge to others. Celebrate each accomplishment....big and small. Have fun on your journey.

[@Naxioan]

what great timing, I am in the process of looking to start blacksmithing this summer! Thanks for the advice!

[@gamernick1533]

So many "he" references in here.. what about the ladysmiths eh? I mean there's Ladysmith Black Mambazo for a start! ;)

[@CelticGod220]

Gamer Nick relax 'he' is just a generic term for human in english. It can be eather a male or female when used the way Alec did.

[@gamernick1533]

I'm an outraged feminist that doesn't like being referred to as he! I should report... nope, can't do it. It was joke, hence the winky face and Lady Smith Black Mambazo part. God I love listening to Homeless by LSBM ;)

[@gamernick1533]

I'm also pretty sure that 'he' is not a generic term for human in English. It's just the outrageous inbuilt patriarchal... nope still can't do it lol

[@CelticGod220]

Gamer Nick ha! Yup got me didn't notice the winky face. That's my derp moment of the day.

[@gamernick1533]

I live with a perpetual derp face but I don't worry about it as it has a mouth hole big enough for both of my feet ;)

[@seanbrian7082]

I honestly loved this video. Great work and thank you for your advice. I'm sure there are many who value this video.

[@tavarestattoo]

Good advice for learning any craft. Hope there are some kids that want to learn my field of work seeing your video too. Thank you.

[@jeffreyblackwell1810]

Hey I love your videos! I also love that you listen to country music! I’m a southern boy here in the US that loves watching you work! Fantastic talent and great work ethic! I’m just now starting to get into blacksmithing and it is difficult. Makes me admire your work even more! Please keep up the good work!

[@tylercundiff6647]

In terms of youtubers that have inspired me, you my friend are one of the biggest. Thank you entirely for what you do day to day. I’m about to build my own forge and metal foundry. I had these plans before viewing any of your videos, but you have paved the way for me in many ways.

[@RedmarKerkhof]

I am currently in the process of setting up a smithy. I took a once day smithing course once and been wanting to get started for myself eversince.

[@DominicA24]

I took my first traditional blacksmithing class today because of you. Thank you for being inspiring.

[@mastermat630]

Good ol time ! I think that was my fav shop honestly ! probably the best years !

[@Cadejos85]

Great words form you Alec, very inspirational and totally true. This is a thinking that we all need to have at our work, whatever it is.

[@flaminghammer51]

Thank you so much for your words of wisdom. Been looking around for some solid advice for a bit.

[@redzula]

Great advice for learning to do anything. Not just blacksmithing.

[@chrishansen3069]

Im 15 and i have about a year of self taught skills also some ive picked up from my buddies and also you im using a coal forge and a railroad track anvil i done almost everything by hand and im proud of it im finally starting to get some pretty good power tools but alot of my insperation comes from you so i thank you for that sir it is an amazing craft and i think that all real men should learn it

[@lennarthennemann8686]

First video I actually watched twice in a row. Never done any blacksmithing, never will, but your attitude is admirable and makes me watch every one of yours. A lot of respect, young sir!

[@siggaspazz]

I got lucky with tools having helped my father Bring down an old barn and that’s why I’m here. Classes in my area are slim but I think it’s a great idea rather than me relying on Alecs lessons and others alone. You are a fantastic teacher and I absolutely enjoy watching all that you do and taking the time to explain everything. I’ll sweep your floor lol

[@ieatcaribou7852]

Thank you sir, I’m 46 and finally getting into this absolutely fantastic craft and what you said was by far the best advice!

[@charleshaskett9629]

One of the best KZbinrs out there. Love this.