Good welding beads are visually worthless.  Proper  welds are only applied where structural integrity is necessary.  I  run hot and cold beads for the visual effect I want. The more heat and spatter the better. Metal warping matters little.  I  use an ac/dc stick welder and set the amperage and polarity to get the visual effect I want regardless of the welding rod type or size . I use mild steel and cast iron primarily because the metal is heavy and highly susceptible to corrosion.   As sculpture material they mirror my feelings about life. The only rules I follow are to not stand in a puddle when welding and drop the welding hood down in time. Enough said.   

                Steven Backlund