# Sovereignty Module: Guard the Gate

## Complete Wrought Iron Fence and Gate Construction: From Bar to Barrier

Wrought iron fencing combines structural engineering with decorative artistry. This campaign covers fence design, picket forging, scroll making, frame construction, and gate hardware.

### Chapter 1: Fence Components

| Component | Material | Dimension | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Posts | 2x2 inch square bar or 2 inch pipe | 6-8 feet long (3 feet buried) | Vertical supports |
| Top rail | 1x1/2 inch flat bar | Spans between posts | Horizontal frame (top) |
| Bottom rail | 1x1/2 inch flat bar | Spans between posts | Horizontal frame (bottom) |
| Pickets | 1/2 inch square bar | 30-42 inches long | Vertical bars |
| Finials | Forged from picket tips | Various designs | Decorative tops |
| Scrolls | 3/8-1/2 inch round or square | Various sizes | Decorative elements |
| Collars | 1/8 x 3/4 inch flat bar | Wraps around joints | Decorative joint covers |

### Chapter 2: Picket Forging

Standard picket: 1) Cut 1/2 inch square bar to length (30-42 inches). 2) Forge finial on top end (spear point, ball, or scroll). 3) Forge bottom end to point (for insertion into rail). 4) Space pickets 4-6 inches apart.

| Finial Type | Description | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Spear point | Four-sided taper to sharp point | Low |
| Ball top | Round ball on top of picket | Moderate |
| Scroll top | Curled scroll at top | Moderate |
| Fleur-de-lis | Stylized lily shape | High |
| Acorn | Acorn-shaped cap | Moderate-high |

### Chapter 3: Scroll Making

Scroll forging: 1) Heat bar end to bright orange. 2) Begin curl over horn of anvil. 3) Use scroll jig or bending fork for consistent curves. 4) Work from tip inward. 5) Reheat as needed. 6) Match scrolls in pairs. 7) Flatten scroll to consistent thickness.

### Chapter 4: Frame Assembly

| Method | Strength | Appearance | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mortise and tenon | Excellent | Traditional, clean | High |
| Collar joint | Good | Decorative | Moderate |
| Forge weld | Excellent | Seamless | Very high |
| Rivet | Very good | Visible rivets | Moderate |

### Chapter 5: Gate Hardware

| Hardware | Type | Material | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strap hinge | Long decorative strap + pintle | 1/4 x 1.5 inch flat bar | Moderate |
| Thumb latch | Lever-operated lift latch | 1/4 x 1 inch flat bar | Moderate-high |
| Ring latch | Ring pulls lift bar | 3/8 inch round bar | Moderate |
| Slide bolt | Sliding bar locks gate | 1/2 x 1/4 inch flat bar | Low-moderate |

### Reference Card

1. Consistent spacing defines quality (evenly spaced pickets with identical finials are the hallmark of quality ironwork). 2. Scrolls must match in pairs (decorative scrolls are always used in mirrored pairs). 3. The collar hides the joint (a decorative collar wrapped around intersections adds professional finish). 4. Gate hinges must be oversized (a gate bears its own weight plus wind load). 5. Forge the finial before cutting to length. 6. Set posts deep (buried at least one-third of total length). 7. Design on paper first (draw full-size to check proportions). 8. Wrought iron fencing is the blacksmith's signature (the most public display of skill and artistry).