The picture shows a sample of patterned Damascus Steel that I made. Damascus steel is a type of steel used in the middle ages in the middle east for making swords. The method used in modern times is probably not exactly that of the middle ages as the art was lost. This sample was made using 2 different types of steel in layers, forging them together, and repeatedly folding and twisting in opposite directions to get the pattern effect. This sample has 28 layers.

I started with 14 layers of flat steel of 2 different alternating types. This stack was then forge welded together, it was then drawn out and then cut in half. One half is then placed on top of the other to create 28 layers. These are then forge welded together and drawn out to a square section. Half is then twisted in one direction and the other half in the other direction. It is cut in half and then placed side by side and forge welded back together.

Then you have to grind down into the pattern and then etch it.

Simple when you know how!