Blacksmith

Blacksmiths create ornamental and functional objects by hot forging a wide range of metals. They apply traditional and modern specialist techniques to form, shape and join metals such as steel, iron, brass, copper and bronze. Industrial blacksmiths produce functional items, such as fire escapes. Artist blacksmiths work with metal to create architectural and decorative pieces.

Work activities vary according to the type of blacksmithing. Blacksmiths might visit a site to discuss requirements with a customer. They would then mark up and cut out the metal to be heated in the forge, before using a variety of forgework techniques to shape the metal. They also apply finishing to the product, depending on whether it is for indoor or outdoor use.

Most blacksmiths are self-employed and working hours vary. Employed blacksmiths usually work Monday to Friday. Blacksmiths work in specialist workshops or forges, which can get very hot and noisy. While working, they wear protective clothing, and the work can involve heavy lifting.

Blacksmiths may earn from around £11,000 to over £50,000 a year.

A blacksmith should:

• be physically fit and have stamina
• have good technical and hand skills
• be creative and have an eye for design
• understand the properties of different metals
• have good business skills, if self-employed
• enjoy working with different types of metal.

Industrial blacksmiths are employed in the mining, docks and engineering industries, but the demand for them is decreasing. Artist blacksmiths are based throughout the UK, mainly in rural areas. It is a small profession, but their number has grown over recent years.

There are two main routes to becoming a blacksmith: training with a professional blacksmith or taking a full-time college course. Industrial blacksmiths may be able to train through an Apprenticeship in engineering and work towards NVQs in fabrication and welding. Herefordshire College of Technology operates a training scheme that provides 14 weeks of training over two years. There are a number of full-time blacksmithing and metalwork college courses. They range from a one-year basic foundation course that has no specific entry requirements to a three-year degree course.

Professional bodies, blacksmithing schools and some experienced blacksmiths offer a range of short special interest courses.

Self-employed blacksmiths usually progress by building their business. Blacksmiths employed in larger organisations may gain promotion to supervisor. Experienced blacksmiths are sometimes employed by museums and heritage centres.

Further details