Top 7 Welding Techniques Every Beginner Should Know
Discover the essential welding techniques beginners need to master, from MIG to TIG welding. Learn the pros, cons, and best uses of each method to kick-start your journey into metalwork.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, a student in the trades, or someone interested in learning the basics of metal welding, this guide is for you. Welding is a core skill used in fabrication, construction, and custom metalwork. But with several welding methods available, it can be hard to know where to begin.
Here are the top 7 welding techniques every beginner should understand, including when to use each and why it matters.
1. MIG Welding (Gas Metal Arc Welding – GMAW)
Best for: Beginners, automotive repair, light fabrication
Overview: MIG welding is widely recommended as the best starting point for new welders. It uses a continuously fed wire and shielding gas (typically Argon or a CO₂ mix) to create strong, clean welds.
Pros:
Easy to learn and operate
Fast process with high deposition rate
Clean, consistent welds
Cons:
Not ideal for outdoor work (wind affects shielding gas)
Requires more maintenance than Stick welding
Learn more in our Welding and Fabrication Services Overview.
2. TIG Welding (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding – GTAW)
Best for: Aluminum, stainless steel, and precision work
Overview: TIG welding delivers highly precise, high-quality welds using a non-consumable tungsten electrode. It’s often used in custom fabrication and detailed metalwork.
Pros:
Superior control for thin or delicate materials
Produces clean, attractive welds
Cons:
Requires more skill and practice
Slower than MIG or Stick welding
Need help with a TIG welding project? Explore our Custom Metal Fabrication Services.
3. Stick Welding (Shielded Metal Arc Welding – SMAW)
Best for: Outdoor jobs, heavy-duty repairs, structural work
Overview: Stick welding is rugged and doesn’t require shielding gas, making it ideal for working in windy or dirty conditions. It’s commonly used for gates, fences, and industrial repairs.
Pros:
Works well outdoors
Inexpensive setup and equipment
Cons:
Requires more cleanup due to slag
Learning curve can be steep
Browse our recent blog on Essential Welding Safety Tips.
4. Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)
Best for: Thick materials, structural and industrial applications
Overview: Flux-cored welding is similar to MIG, but the wire contains flux so it can work without shielding gas in some cases. It's great for heavy-duty outdoor jobs.
Pros:
Excellent for thick metals
Can be used outside
Cons:
Creates slag that needs to be removed
More spatter than MIG
Learn about the differences between FCAW and other techniques.
5. Oxy-Acetylene Welding
Best for: Cutting, brazing, light repair jobs
Overview: This flame-based welding method doesn’t require electricity and is versatile for both welding and cutting. It’s an excellent technique for mobile or off-grid repairs.
Pros:
No power source needed
Portable and flexible
Cons:
Less control than modern arc welding
Slower and less precise
Need help off-site? Check out our Mobile & Onsite Welding Services.
6. Spot Welding
Best for: Sheet metal, automotive panels
Overview: Spot welding is a resistance welding technique that quickly joins thin metal sheets using pressure and an electrical current. Often seen in manufacturing, it’s used for speed and efficiency.
Pros:
Very fast
Ideal for mass production
Cons:
Limited to thinner materials
Requires specialized machinery
7. Plasma Arc Welding
Best for: Aerospace, precision manufacturing
Overview: Plasma welding offers higher precision and deeper penetration than TIG. It’s used in advanced fabrication and high-end manufacturing environments.
Pros:
Exceptional precision and control
Ideal for high-spec projects
Cons:
Expensive equipment
Requires experienced operators
Explore advanced topics in metalworking on our Welding Education Hub.
Which Welding Technique Should You Start With?
For beginners, MIG welding offers the easiest learning curve and works well for most general fabrication projects. From there, try TIG welding for clean finishes or Stick welding for durable, outdoor work.
Want help from the pros? Let ASB Welding Pros guide your next project.
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