When working with steel, blacksmiths often use a process called forging. Forging is when you heat up the steel until it’s malleable, and then use tools to shape it into the desired form.
Before beginning the forging process, blacksmiths will sometimes sprinkle a powder on the steel. This powder is usually graphite or clay, and its purpose is to prevent the steel from sticking to the tools or becoming damaged during the process.
Graphite is a good option for preventing sticking, but it can cause the steel to become brittle. Clay is less likely to cause brittleness, but it isn’t as effective at preventing sticking. Ultimately, it’s up to the blacksmith to decide which powder to use based on their own preferences and what they’re trying to achieve with the piece of steel.