Don’t!

Larger Than Life Swords – and Larger Than Life Injuries

Micheal Craughwell’s homemade weapons were an overwhelming success the moment they hit the Internet, from his replica of Cloud Strife’s sword to his infamous Pride Month-themed Big Gay Sword. His road to success was far from straightforward, though, and involved more than a few cuts, scrapes, and encounters with nitric acid.

In this gory and gut-busting essay collection, Michael tells the story of his rise to prominence as YouTube’s favorite blacksmith, all by recounting the most dangerous (and hilarious) stories from his career. Dive into a collection of essays with titles like:

• Art College and the Crushing of My Balls
• A Million Steel Splinters in my Skin
• America! (And Boiling My Face Off)
• Lathes and the Times My Swords Have Bit Me

Sword lovers, weapon enthusiasts, and nerds of all kinds will marvel at the scope of the giant, impractical video game weapons described in this book – and anyone with a curious streak will enjoy learning why you should absolutely not try this at home. With heart, humor, and blood (lots of blood), Michael shows us what it takes to work with your hands.