ForgeBlaze & Kote
Kote Kote
Hey ForgeBlaze, I’ve been thinking about making a sturdy, comfortable metal collar for my rescued dogs—any tips on keeping it strong yet gentle on their skin?
ForgeBlaze ForgeBlaze
Sure thing. Start with a mild steel that won’t rust and won’t be too harsh on skin – 300 series is good. Forge it over a medium heat so it’s ductile, then give it a decent cold‑draw to smooth out the edges. Heat‑treat it lightly; a quick temper at about 400 °C will keep it strong but not brittle. After that, polish every surface, especially where it contacts the dog, until it’s smooth to the touch. If you’re worried about comfort, shape a shallow, rounded collar that distributes pressure evenly – don’t force it too tight. Finally, add a small leather or silicone pad inside for extra cushioning. Keep the craftsmanship tight, no shortcuts, and you’ll get a collar that’s both sturdy and kind to the pups.