Side bending

[Mbryan]

Do most small shops use bending machines or the bending iron to bend their sides?

[Fathand]

Originally Posted by Mbryan

Do most small shops use bending machines or the bending iron to bend their sides?

From an unscientific poll of reading lots of forum posts, some books and watching lots of youtube videos, I would say enough people use either or both, that both methods are valid.

I think the bending blanket over a form method may feel more approachable to newer builders.

[nikpearson]

…is a much less expensive and flexible way to bend sides but it also requires practice.

The side bending machines can produce more consistent results but are both expensive and require a form for each body shape.

Having used a bending iron for several builds, I find a bending strap of sprung steel can help create more even curves and reduces the risk of splitting. Getting a couple of practice sides under your belt will give you more confidence.