We’ve put this difficulty scale together to help you find the right challenge for your skill level. Each level highlights a range of factors – like how complex the assembly is, the type of welds involved, or the loads it needs to handle.
Here’s the key: if a project meets even one of the criteria for a certain difficulty level, that’s where it lands. Maybe it’s a simple design, but the load it needs to carry is massive – that alone can bump it up the scale. Don’t be discouraged if something sounds tough; these levels are here to guide you, not hold you back.
It’s absolutely possible to tackle projects a little above your current capabilities… that’s how we all improve. But be aware that you might need a little help, or it may take you a lot longer, to make sure you get the job done safely and professionally.
The Weld Projects Rating Scale
Level 1
This is the simplest level of project we offer. If you’ve ever assembled anything from Ikea or Amazon, you can do this!
- No welding required; bolt-together, snap-fit, or similar assembly.
- Decorative or aesthetic only; no real load-bearing needs.
- Failures are a minor inconvenience, not a safety issue.
Level 2
These projects include just a bit of welding, but nothing critical. Think of it as adding a tack weld or two to keep parts steady.
- Minimal tack welds in easy positions.
- Non-critical joints where a weld failure won’t cause big problems.
- Basic alignment, minimal finishing.
Level 3
A slight step up, with simple welds on low-stress parts. You’ll gain confidence as you put down some basic MIG welds.
- Simple MIG fillet welds on lightly loaded parts.
- Failure is annoying, not dangerous.
- Straightforward fit-up, light cleanup.
Level 4
Now you’re doing real welding that matters. These projects might hold moderate loads, so neat, well-penetrated welds count.
- MIG welding on moderate-load parts.
- Proper weld penetration and neatness.
- Some joint prep and basic finishing.
Level 5
A bit more responsibility here. Your welds need to support functional loads, like a small rack or a sturdy stand.
- Welds on load-bearing structures.
- Accurate fit-up and multiple passes.
- Potential property damage if weld fails.
Level 6
Stepping into more challenging territory with tougher angles and more weight on your welds. This level tests your technique and consistency.
- Angled/vertical welds or possibly basic TIG work.
- Supports noticeable weight – quality matters.
- Some distortion control needed.
Level 7
Complex shapes and trickier welding positions appear here. You’ll need fixtures to hold everything steady and keep angles true.
- Out-of-position welds, tighter tolerances.
- Heavy loads; failure risks damage or injury.
- Requires fixturing and multi-process skill.
Level 8
Serious projects that demand advanced skills. Managing long seams, tight tolerances, and distortion control is key.
- High-load, multi-process welds.
- Complex fixturing and careful heat management.
- Failure is severe, risking injury and major costs.
Level 9
Welcome to pro-level territory. These builds may even involve exotic alloys or complex geometry, with welds that must hold up under heavy or dynamic loads.
- Complex assemblies, possibly exotic materials.
- High-tolerance, load-bearing structures.
- Multiple processes, inspections, and testing.
Level 10
The highest difficulty projects demand master-level skills. Think large-scale, critical structures that can’t afford any failures—ever.
- Extreme loads and precise tolerances.
- Specialized techniques (pulse TIG, advanced alloys).
- Catastrophic consequences if welds fail; absolute expertise required.