My name is Andrew Valsamis. Since I remember myself, I always enjoyed making stuff with my hands. I started welding back in 2001 out of curiosity, since I wanted to try all the power tools I could get my hands on.
I managed to acquire a stick welding buzz box, a small package of E7014 rods, and a passive helmet. With them, I tried to strike my first arc and lay down a bead on some scrap metal. The instant melting of the scrap metal was a surprise, and watching the weld puddle through the helmet was captivating.
Since then, I got hooked up with welding. I went to welding training courses and expanded my home shop with additional MIG and TIG welders and equipment.
Why I started this blog
When I was a beginner, I made numerous typical mistakes. Making an error such as selecting the wrong type of electrode can cause defects that will require a lot of time and effort to correct. The same applies if you burn through thin metal or warping the metal from excessive heat.
But I have learned a lot since then. For nineteen years before I started this blog, I welded numerous projects such as trailers and gates. But my personal favorite is weight training equipment. Power racks, dumbbell racks, adjustable benches, and so on have always been a pleasure to make.
Through these years, I have advised multiple friends who wanted to start welding. I helped them with choosing the proper welding equipment, tools, and protective equipment. After that, I offered them the necessary knowledge to make a good start, avoiding typical beginner mistakes.
Since most people nowadays have a blog, I decided to create one and reach out to people worldwide, offering the same help.
For whom I am writing
Weldpundit is a blog for new hobbyists, home DIYers, and everyone else who wants access to information about welding.
I maintain and expand this blog by myself and write all the articles based on my life experience and after doing any necessary research.
In this blog, you can read in-depth articles and how-to guides about welding and metal fabrication, such as:
- Explaining the various welding processes and how they work.
- How to set up the welding equipment for each process.
- How to use the necessary tools, accessories, and consumables.
- Personal protective equipment that you need.
- How to avoid or correct typical mistakes and defects.
- Basic welding safety in the workshop.
- How to weld various metals.
- Answering popular questions about welding.
But having a blog helps me too. This way, I can keep up with all the latest advancements in welding that make it easier and faster. I don’t want to miss any of that, and I’ll be happy to share it on the blog.
I recommend reading these articles: can you weld at home and how to protect yourself from welding fumes and gases.