I bought a welder yesterday. Flux core. I’ve never welded before in my life. I’ve only gotten a little advice from my Dad who has stick welded a good bit, and I’ve watched some YouTube videos. Im confused if I’m supposed to be straight dragging or making little “e’s”?

In my limited experience you move very little with the cheaper flux welders

Seek the wisdom of the wise chickenman. FYI your day one pics look a million times better than his day one pics

Never welded before? Looks like your a natural at it.

I've seen a heck of a lot worse..
Looks good on first try.

Looks good for a 4yo with MS...

Just kidding, I dont know much about welding.

Not bad, I have seen worse welds on API Storage Tanks.

That looks pretty descent if you can do vertical welds like that then you got it made

You could be a boiler maker tomorrow

Circles are too big.

Your lawnmower will vibrate badly now

You can drag or push wire. The only reason to weave is if your gap is a little too wide and you're having to weave to tie in you root pass. For first timer those are exceptional welds. In the last picture, the third bead is your best. Run CO2 (even with flux core) and you'll get a cleaner weld. Stay with it, you're doing good! Oh, one more tip....wire welding won't tolerate rust/dirt....be sure to clean the joint before welding.

A wee bit cold.

I would ask RJ, or Magged out

Point the nozzle down more to make the weld go wider instead of piling up.

You off tomorrow? I maybe in town.