Learning how to weld is really not that difficult. Most welders learn arc welding first. The easiest way to start welding is simply by practicing. You can pickup a cheap arc welder from somewhere like harborfreight tools. It will cost you under $120.
You will also need a welding helmet, welding gloves, a heavy jacket and some welding rods. Take my advice, spend the extra money and get an auto darkening helmet. It will make learning so much easier. You will also want to get a supply of scrap steel to practice on. This can be picked up at a scrap yard.
Now that you have all the supplies, its time to weld.
Find an appropriate area, somewhere outdoors, without anything flammable around. Secure your scrap steel to some kind of table at a comfortable working height. Attach the ground to the steel. Place the welding rod in the other clamp. Put on your heavy jacket, gloves, helmet and thick pants. Turn on the welder, set it at somewhere around 80 amps to start with.
To start the arc you want to jab the electrode at the steel, then slightly pull back. If it sticks, break it free and try again. If it continues to stick, turn the amps up. Once you have an arc going you will need to feed the electrode into it to maintain the arc. You want it about 1/4 of an inch from the metal. When it is at the right distance it will make a crackling noise. If it is too far away it will be more of a popping noise, with sparks and metal flying in all directions. If it is too close, it will stick to the metal.
The first thing you want to practice is simply laying a bead on a single piece of metal. Once you have that down, you can move on to connecting two pieces of metal together.
Checkout my welding blog to learn many tips and tricks that will save you from much frustration. Remember, when learning how to weld safety comes first! You can instantly cause permament eye damage from looking at the arc without a helmet on. Also welding fumes are highly toxic. Be sure any bystanders are aware of this.
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