>>2621584
Start out making tools, tongs, knives, trinkets, decorative spoons, decorations, etc... when you get good enough, start doing larger projects. Also, any blacksmith that tells you I'm a blacksmith I don't shoe horses is an idiot. Yes, farriers specialize in horses, and in larger cities, you could specialize in one thing, but out with limited income, you take whatever job puts food on the table or you flip burgers to support blacksmithing. Older smith's will usually share knowledge they have skill and know theircraft. It's the younger ones hoarding knowledge because they are inexperienced, feel threatened, and see you as competition.
Pick up edge of the anvil book, don't use a cast-iron anvil, and railroad track or any thick hard metal will work just fine to start with.