●Tamahagane- a pure metal used to make the swords. Also known as Jewel Steel. ●Tatara- A big clay furnace made specifically to produce tamahagane. ●Water Stones- Stones used to grind and polish the sword.

●Japanese swords are also known as katanas ●Most bladed weapons were made for either stabbing or slashing but katanas could do both

Making the sword For 3 days and nights smelters pour 25 tons of charcoal and river sand with iron into a tatara. While smelting, the carbon in the metal dissolves, making 2 types of tamahagane. The first type is high carbon which hard and can make a hard edge. The second type is low carbon which is very tough and durable. Swords use both types of Tamahagane. Making the Sword 1

Making the Sword 2 The best pieces of tamahagane are sent to the swordsmith's where they will be folded repeatedly to combine the metal and carbon even more and remove any remaining impurities. This is important because if there are any impurities remaining they will weaken the sword.

Making the Sword 3 After the swordsmith's finish folding the steel they combine the hard steel and the tough steel together. The hard steel forms the blade and the outside while the tough steel forms the inside.

Making the Sword 4 The sword smith then puts the sword back into the fire and once it is hot enough they take it out and cool it in water. This process is called quenching. The difference in heat between the two metals causes the sword to bend, creating the curve in the blade.

Making the Sword 5 Next the sword smith coats or paints the blade with a mix of clay and charcoal powder to make the design and to protect the sword.

The sword is then sent to a polisher who grinds, polishes, and sharpens the sword with water stones. Finally metal workers add a decorated hilt guard and hilt. Making the Sword 6

They also make a wooden scabbard for the sword and decorate it. The sword is now ready to sell. Making the Sword 7

THE END