Hope I don't ruffle anyone feathers here , but I only partially agree with Brian Bayless on the need to produce a significant number of frames to really consider yourself an "expert" frame builder. I fully agree that there is no black art to frame construction , and many a fine frame has been built by novice builders. Just as Brian states the important factor is patience and attention to detail . The "expert " builder however has sufficient practise at his craft where all the processes flow smoothly and the basic steps become practically automatic. The expert is able to pick up the torch and adjust the flame just so in seconds, knows almost intuitively when the steel is just the right temperature regardless of the mass or section of the part. and a hundred other small but vital pieces of craft that a beginner agonizes over. Just as I can find my way around a lathe or milling machine enough to produce the part I need for my Norton, I would never describe myself as a machinist. The machinists I know would no doubt find my methods crude or at least inefficient. The resulting part may be as good ,but you can bet I took at least four times as long to do it{and probably three attempts}. So from my point of view I think Brian Bayless is mostly right ,the basic process is not that difficult. But for me to consider anyone an Expert at any skill ,implies that the person has a considerable body of experience and can produce a consistently high quality product in a efficient manner. There may be the rare individual who has it it all together right from the start but for the rest of us experience is invaluable.
P.S. I am not a frame builder, however I have been involved with all welding and brazing processes over the last thirty plus years, including time spent as a welding instructor. Lots of light gauge fabrication and torch work.
Greg Lone Langley B.C. Canada
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