Getting started in metal crafts?

Hi All,

I also posted this to rec.crafts.metalworking, but I'm guessing I can
get some advice here as well. After trying many crafts over the years -
painting, sewing, quilting, woodworking, etc. - I've finally decided
that I'd like to focus on metal crafts. I find myself attracted to
anything metallic, whether it be beads, paint, hardware (the older the
better), tin ceilings, whatever.

I'd like some advice on getting started (as in a good book, web
resources, suppliers, etc.), though my range of initial interest is
probably not covered in any one book. I'd like to learn about different
types of metal, gauges, the best materials for projects, tools needed,
techniques for antiquing metal, and perhaps how to solder. I'm
interested in learning about embossing, punching and metal collage. I
have searched the Web but the options seem overwhelming. Amazon has over
300 books in the metal crafts category.

Also, DickBlick.com seems to have some reasonable prices on metal
sheeting and tooling supplies. Is this a reputable site?

Thanks for any advice,
Karen