Blacksmithing: A Beginner’s Guide to Forging and Shaping Metal

Are you ready to unleash your inner blacksmith? If you’ve ever dreamed of creating beautiful and functional metal pieces using traditional techniques, then this beginner’s guide is for you!

The origins of Blacksmithing

Blacksmithing has a long and fascinating history, dating back to 1500BC, when blacksmiths used fire to forge and temper iron to make, repair and maintain basic tools.

In Mediaeval times, the skills of blacksmiths were highly sought after by knights of the realm to fabricate all the armour, swords, shields and lance tips. Before the industrial revolution, blacksmiths were an essential part of the community and crucial to daily life. 

Modern Blacksmithing

These days, blacksmithing is still a rewarding and challenging craft. And whilst there may no longer be a blacksmith in every village, the same techniques and tools are still used by contemporary blacksmiths.

Ask any blacksmith why they do what they do, and they are sure to tell you they love being hands-on, working the metal to create beautiful forms. Of course, it’s hot and dirty work but it is incredibly rewarding.

Nowadays most artisan blacksmiths work on commission. It could be anything from stylish wrought iron gates, furniture, fire sets and artistic garden sculptures, to intricate table decorations and jewellery.  Blacksmiths may also specialise in things like bladesmithing or tool making, creating stunning pieces that are practical too.

Becoming a Blacksmith: Apprenticeships, Courses and Experience Days

So, you fancy the idea of getting creative with metal and want to become a blacksmith? Great! There are several paths you can take to gain the skills and knowledge you’ll need. 

One option is to pursue an apprenticeship, where you’ll work alongside an experienced blacksmith and learn the trade through hands-on experience. 

You can also consider enrolling in a blacksmithing course or programme at a college. This is a particularly attractive option for adult learners, those keen to turn their hobby into a career, or people wanting a complete career change.

How they came to be full-time Blacksmiths

Owen, who runs blacksmith courses at his village forge in Shepley, West Yorkshire, started with a degree in Industrial Design, worked in Graphic Design and then turned his passion for blacksmithing into his career.

In Edinburgh, Sandy left the corporate rat race behind for a complete career change to become a blacksmith. His natural talent and enthusiasm shines through during his Blacksmith classes at his Newbridge forge.

Skilled craftsman Daniel went down the traditional route to become a blacksmith; training in artistic blacksmithing and contemporary crafts. He then headed to Japan to study the minimalist ‘Wabi-Sabi’ approach to Blacksmithing, that’s to say ‘beauty in imperfection’. His Norfolk Blacksmith classes reflect this style, creating beautiful, delicate forged pieces.

Just want to have a go at Blacksmithing?

Not quite ready to commit to a full-blown apprenticeship or course? No problem! How about going to a blacksmithing workshop or class? Taster experiences are available at workshops and studios around the UK.

Hosted by expert blacksmiths, these courses give you the opportunity to give this fascinating craft a try. You will very much be hands-on for the duration of your class, learning the traditional techniques to create a bespoke piece for you to take home with you.

Lasting from a couple of hours to a couple of days, all the teaching and materials you need to get started in Blacksmithing are included.

And who knows, it could be the start of a new hobby or even a new career for you!

Browse the full range of Blacksmithing Experiences from Into The Blue