Bellows Double

I have assembled a set of double bellows that I can use at multiple time period re-enactments what I learned is that BIG valves are essential. 7+ inches across.

The 1 inch pipe was a bit on the small side. I'll use a bigger pipe next time.

Documentation:

Based on this woodcut dating from 1580 I have a good idea of the stand style I will be using.

Zusammengesetzter Blasebalg: Crosscut of double bellows of unknown timeperiod

Civil War Bellows

There were some excellent images shared on facebook from the author of Civil War Blacksmithing

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Civil-War-Blacksmithing

NCABANA article on Bellows contruction

http://www.ibiblio.org/nc-abana/newsletter/2012q1_ncabana.pdf

Description:

Essentially you end up with a series of layers

TOP BOARD

TOP RIB

CENTER BOARD

BOTTOM RIB

BOTTOM BOARD

Materials

Sunforger canvas

8 door hinges

lots of screws

1 lb 3/4 inch tacks from mcmaster carr

2 sheets 3/4 inch plywood

1 piece of 1 inch pipe

ratchet strap webbing

Steps

I cut 5 identical pieces of plywood the same size as the centerboard.

4 ft long

30 14 inch wide

with 6inches wide at the head stock