Has anyone tried to use wire rope for damascus patterns?I'm new to knife making and would like to build a small forge for damascus,I was told wire rope was ok and welding patterns in auto leaf springs would produce nice patterns also.Any help would be appreciated.Drop-Shot

Yup, people do make damascus from wire rope, though it's usually called cable damascus when people refer to it, I haven't made any yet so I can't really help though, good luck.

Check this page http://www.ccinstructionalvideos.com/ . I've seen the 1st video on WR damascus and it is very good. If you've never welded cable this would be a super investment.
Matt..

Thanks guys,I'm real new to knife making but want to learn,I have made knife kits but I would want to be able to make a real well made knife,one that would hold an edge and look good doing it.Thanks for the help on videos,I don't get all the info in my head when reading but watching a video is great help.Thanks,Drop-Shot

Cable Damascus is the easiest to make. Do not use anything under 1" crossection. The smaller the strand in the cable the fast the carbon burns out of it when you are welding it up. When I get a new student that is the first Damascus I have them make. I also have building a forge tutorial on my site. Good Luck

For cable damascus, check out Center Cross Metal works.
I also have blades and billets available for other makers.
Custom orders are taken for blades too.
Cable welds fine, just keep it hot to help clean it and use plenty of flux.

So Indian George do you teach?Where are you? Geno when you say welding cable,do you use an arc welder or gas welding? This is easy for you guys but not for me,I have been a Mechanic for close to 40 years and recently became disabled but I get around and would love to learn the things you guys know.Drop-Shot

No we are talking about forge welding the cable into damascus steel.
The preverbial heating and beating of steel, or mixing different metals together for pattern.
Please feel free to visit my website for examples.

[So Indian George do you teach?Where are you? Geno when you say welding cable,do you use an arc welder or gas welding? This is easy for you guys but not for me,I have been a Mechanic for close to 40 years and recently became disabled but I get around and would love to learn the things you guys know.Drop-Shot
Yes I do. Like today have people coming over. We (NECKA) have Hammer-Ins at my shop 2 to 3 times a year. I am up here in the Old Whaling Capital of the World New Bedford, Ma.
Where are you?????