I thought some of y'all might be interested in this very old book, which describes how things were done in the trades circa 1703. A good addition to your electronic library. Freely downloadable at:
For the reason aforesaid I intend to begin with Smithing, which comprehends not only the Black-Smith's Trade, but takes in all Trades which use either Forge or File, from the Anchor-Smith, to the Watch-Maker; they all working by the same Rules, tho not with equal exatness and all using the fame Tools, tho' of several Sizes from those the common Black-Smith uses, and that according to the various purposes they are applied to.
And in order to it, I shall first shew you how to set up a Forge, and what Tools you must use in the Black Smith's work; then the Rules, and several Circumstances of Forging, till your Work come to the File: Then of the several Sorts of Iron that are commonly used; and what fort is fittest for each purpose.