Turkish Twist Pattern (in progress tutorial)

For this pattern I use a layer count from 12 to 48 of alternating steel such as 1084 and 15n20. My billet size is 1-1/2“x6” by however high depending on the steel thickness used.

The billet is heated to welding temperature in the forge. I use anhydrous borax for flux.

Once the billet had reached welding temperature it is welded on the press

The billet is then drawn out to pieces approximately 3/8“x3/8“x24” long.

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The long lengths are then cut into 6” pieces (or whatever length one might want for the next composite billet. It is very important to chamfer the eegs of piece to avoid de-lamination when they are twisted in the next process.

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Each piece is then heated and twisted. A good twist is about one and a half twist per inch of heated bar. The pattern cabn be manipulated by twist either clockwise or counter-clockwise depending on what you want.

After each piece is twisted, parallel sides of each piece are surfaced by either forging or grinding. I use a surface grinder.

The surfaced pieces are then stacked one on top of the other to build the new composite billet. The ends are welded together and a handle welded on and the billet is ready for welding.

The composite billet is heated to welding temp…..

and lightly welded on the press.

The welded piece is then drawn out and hammered to about a quarter inch thick.

It’s important to leave steel to grind off the flats to reveal the star and swirl effect of the pattern.