Fugly really fugly

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Well I got the new welder, Hobart Handler 187, set up in the garage. Using argon/co2 mix. First I welded a jig to hold some small tubing square while I made some shelf brackets for the basement. These welds were good, but it was downhill from there.Setting the welder on the lowest setting and 30fpm wire feed I proceeded to try to weld the light 3/4" tubing. It seemed like every thing I did was wrong. Looked like a mud dauber had built a nest, no the mud dauber would have done a better job.I now have more respect for those that can weld light steel and do a good job. I also now understand how difficult it is to design (using that word liberally), lay out and finish a project. Found several things I did wrong from the start, but I did learn a few things, so not a total loss.Also was thinking of a cart for my first project, but decided a welding table would be first.I will try and post the welds from the jig for comments. The welds on the brackets have already been ground down and hidden from the world.
Reply:We all prefer to hide our, "not so good" welds from the site. We also like to really show off our good ones. But, if most of them are not so good, then it's actually better to post them so some of the experienced guys here can tell you what you're doing wrong. Remember, PERFECT practice makes perfect!"Where's Stick man????????" - 7A749"SHHHHHH!! I sent him over to snag that MIC-4 while tbone wasn't looking!" - duaneb55"I have bought a few of Tbone's things unlike Stick-Man who helps himself" - TozziWelding"Stick-man"
Reply:Hey Tallgrass, everybody has to start. Usually, things get better after you start, learn, practice, do, re-do, etc.Post some pictures and the guys here will give you good advice. Ask for help and you will get plenty.Burt _____________________Miller Syncrowave 250Millermatic 211Miller 375 Plasma Cutter Hobart Handler 12010FtDrillBit.com
Reply:Don't feel bad.  I am still learning too.  I learned a rather expensive mistake early on.  I decided that I could begin my project without practicing on the metal first.  Well, that did not work.  So, I had to go back to the steel yard and buy more.  The second time, I bought a few more feet of tubing than I needed.  Then, I cut the extra and used it to practice with.  By doing that, I was able to get my heat and wire speed set correctly before I started on the project.  I still have a long way to go.  The more I learn, the more I realize how much I do not know.
Reply:Tallgrass, every body had to start somewhere.  When I first started the pigeons droppings looked and held better than my welds.  Now I can consistently lay down a proper bead with good fusion and tie in about 90% of the time.  The key is to seek a little help so you know what a good weld is since MIG will conceal poor fusion and penetration and look good but be weak as water.  If you have a freind or associate who welds ask em for some help, otherwise I strongly recomend taking a class at the local community college or tech school.  The money you spend will be less than the cost of the materials, gas and wire and will help you get a leg up and going in the right direction.  Welcome to the addiction, it's OK you wont ever go to jail for exercising this one... Above all do not get discouraged, if it was easy everybody would be a welder.BobI'm spending my Kids inheritance, I dont like him that much anyway!!!!!!Enuff tools to do the job, enough sense to use em.Anybody got a spare set of kidneys?  Trade?