Cody's Lab: Metal Mushrooms and the Intuition for Metal Flow

Most bladesmiths are always looking for ways to improve, to refine their process. Sometimes that refinement comes in the form of pushing the envelope with complex Damascus patterns or intricate file work. Sometimes, it’s about something… unexpected. Cody’s Lab’s latest project is a prime example – preserving foraged mushrooms in bronze. Sounds weird? Maybe. But as Cody explains, it’s a surprisingly effective way to build intuition and practice techniques that’ll benefit any maker.

We’ve all been there – working on a project that feels low-stakes, but the lessons learned carry over to the real deal. For Cody, these metal mushrooms are that low-stakes practice ground. He's tackling a technique that could just as easily be applied to engine parts – a good reminder that sometimes the path to mastery isn't a straight line. He even used the practice to create a bronze branding iron for his parents, highlighting the importance of thermal conductivity for humane livestock handling.

The video dives into some common casting challenges and Cody's clever solutions. He addresses the issue of gas buildup within the mold, a problem many makers encounter. Forget elaborate vent tubes; Cody’s found a simpler approach – strategically drilling holes directly through the plaster mold. It’s a testament to the importance of observation and adapting techniques based on real-world results. As he says, “it’s much easier to do that way.”

For those of us deep in the Rogue Blades world, this approach resonates. It’s that same spirit of problem-solving, of finding practical solutions at the anvil. Whether you're a seasoned Blade Angel or just starting out, Cody’s process highlights the value of experimentation and the surprising places you can find valuable lessons. Think about it – even a seemingly simple project like this can inform your heat treat process, your edge geometry choices, or even the design of your bolster.

And the scale of these castings is impressive. He jokes about one being “a whole steak worth of food.” Imagine the heft of a bronze chef’s knife or a hunting knife built with that same care and attention to detail.

If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on metalworking, or just enjoy seeing creative problem-solving in action, Cody’s Lab is worth a look. It’s a reminder that learning isn't confined to forging swords or making EDC knives; it's a constant process of observation, experimentation, and adaptation.

Want to get your hands dirty? Consider finding a Blade Angel near you to learn the craft firsthand. Or perhaps a Live Workshop at a HolyPlace is in order. And if you’re feeling ambitious, list a custom commission – you never know who’s looking for a unique, bronze-cast mushroom (or a beautifully crafted blade!).