We've heard from numerous people that want to learn to weld by reading the top welding books. Ask someone in the welding industry and they will tell you to practice, practice, practice if you want to learn to weld. In other words, it's one of those skills that is sometimes best learned by doing rather than reading. But what separates the good from the great welders is not the ability to keep a steady hand, but understanding the material preps, weldability, right type of feeding wire, etc.

Learning under a professional welder is often necessary, but to gain an edge when going to welding school for the first time, it is helpful to read up on the topics that interest you most to be on top of your class.

Here are WeldingStars.com's top welding books.

1. 1. 1. 1. Metals and How to Weld Them

            This is a classic originally published in 1962 and recently revised to a more modern version, this book written by Mr. Jefferson and Mr. Woods goes into fundamentals in a nontechnical language which means it's perfect for someone just starting out. In fact this book has been used for curriculum in numerous high school and college-level welding courses.

         2. Welding Pocket Reference

            A good high-level summary for anyone getting started in welding from a quick easy reference to welding symbols to just enough of details on welding procedures and techniques to go from novice to smartest welder in the room in no time.

            And, why we know everyone always says you don't judge a book by it's cover, we do like the simplicity of the black and yellow cover, that is simple enough to bring into any welding shop without looking like a noob to welding.

            

         3. Welding Symbols Quick Card

            Sometimes you don't need an entire book, but just a quick guide to reference. Remember if learning to weld is all about practicing, you don't want to waste your time sifting through books to find welding symbols. This guide is the perfect solution. It also has well over 300 positive Amazon reviews. So don't just take our word for it!

            We've also published more on reading welding diagram symbols here on our blog.

         4. Welding for Dummies

            Ok, so no one really loves to read a book about being a dummy, but the is a reason why the “dummies” book series is so popular. They have highly-vetted experts, strong editors, graphics, etc. This is a book you can't go wrong with. While some of the topics such as setting up your torch covered in the book can be found in our blog, having a paperback copy for quick reference is a good idea.

         5.  Farm and Workshop Welding

            Whether you are looking for Gas, Tig, or Stick or just need some quick tips for wire feed welding for the first time this is a great book for the beginner and novice welder. With over 100 positive reviews Andrew Pearce really knows what he is doing when it comes to welding and is able to communicate processes and procedures in a way that makes learning to simple.

         6.  Automotive Welding

            Finding yourself in the niche of Auto Body welding? Here is our favorite book when it comes to Automotive welding. To be honest, the book could use a little work in the way it presents the material, but overall it's actually a solid book for someone that need a little more niche instructions for welding on cars and trucks.