Forging a steel heart for your sweetheart

I started Forging a steel heart for your sweetheart out using 3/8″ square stock about 18″ long. This stock is hot rolled, so it comes with rounded corners and scale on the surface. The alternative is cold rolled, It has sharp corners and a shiny surface. I prefer hot rolled steel for forging. Keeping both sides of the heart symmetrical is not that important. It is a way of showing that something is made by hand. Which is a popular quality.

Forged steel hearts are one of the simplest, most rewarding blacksmithing projects you can make. They’re quick, they teach essential hammer control, and they make a perfect handmade gift for a spouse, partner, friend, or family member.
If you’re new to blacksmithing and want a project that builds confidence without requiring fancy tools, this is a great place to start.

I am always keeping the steel flat. Constantly hammering the high spots, so it never gets out of control. Notice the end of the scroll is off the face of the anvil, because it is wider than the rest of the stock. This lets me keep the rest of the steel completely flat. The size of stock for this project is not very important. It could be made with bigger or smaller material. Small ones might be worn around the neck with a ribbon or string. That’s how you forge a steel heart. You can see some of my favorite products Here.

Tools & Materials You’ll Need

¼” or ⅜” mild steel round or square stock
Forge (coal, propane, or charcoal)
Cross peen or rounding hammer
Anvil or anvil substitute
Tongs
Wire brush
Beeswax, linseed oil, or paste wax for finishing
This project works with almost any basic setup — even a beginner forge and a stump anvil.

Why Forged Hearts Are a Great Beginner Project
Forging a heart teaches several core blacksmithing skills:

tapering
spreading metal
bending and shaping
heat control
symmetry
cleanup and finishing
It’s a small project, so mistakes don’t cost much steel or time. And because every heart comes out a little different, imperfections actually add character.

Step‑by‑Step: How to Forge a Steel Heart

Cut Your Stock
Cut a piece of mild steel around 18 inches long.
Shorter stock makes a smaller heart; longer stock gives you more room to shape.
Flatten each end
Heat one end to a bright orange and forge it flat.
You don’t want it sharp — just a smooth, rounded end.
Repeat the other end of the stock.
Create the First side bend
Heat the tapered end again and bend it over the horn of the anvil to form the first curve.
Create the Second side bend
Flip the piece around, heat the other end, and bend it to mirror the first curve.
Don’t worry if they’re not perfect — that’s what makes it unique.
Refine the shape
Heat the center and gently close the two lobes together.

This is where the heart really takes shape.
Clean Up the Edges
Brush the piece with a wire brush while it’s still hot. Wearing your safety glasses of course. Wire brushes can throw wires sometimes.
Add Texture (Optional)
You can also :

twist the stem
add a hammered texture
stamp initials
punch a hole for a keychain or necklace for a small verion.

Tips

My Favorite finish is vegetable oil, apply when still a little hot. It will smoke.

Keep your bends hot — cold steel cracks.
Work slowly and check symmetry often.
handmade hearts look best when they’re unique.

Common Questions
What size steel should I use?
¼” or ⅜” mild steel is perfect for beginners. It heats quickly and bends easily.
How long does this project take?
Most beginners can forge a heart in 15–25 minutes.
Is this a good first project?
Yes — it teaches bending, tapering, and heat control without being overwhelming.
Can I make these to sell?
Absolutely. Forged hearts sell well at craft fairs, farmers markets, and online shops.

Here Are some of my other articles about blacksmithing.

Forging a steel heart for your sweetheart like this one might be considered a good valentine’s day gift. Just don’t mention that her gift used to be a rusty piece of scrap metal. Of course the fact that it was old and rusty, just adds to the unique story. A piece of red ribbon tied to the heart can add this unique gift. The ribbon turns this piece of steel into a piece of art that could be hung on the wall.
Forging a steel heart is fun, and you might end up with something you can give to your wife. Whether you’re brand new to the craft or just want a quick project, this one is worth a try. Maybe you will end up making more than one.

You can watch the video here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdH9KMqHoVE&t=89s