Blacksmith

A blacksmith shapes metal — traditionally iron and steel — by heating it in a forge and working it with hammer and anvil. They forge tools, hardware, decorative ironwork, knives, and artistic pieces, drawing out, bending, twisting, and joining hot metal by hand to create both functional and ornamental objects.

Once essential to every community, the craft survives today in artisan, restoration, and artistic work, prized for its hand-forged quality. Blacksmiths work in their own forges, at historic sites, and on commission.

The job suits creative, strong, patient people drawn to a traditional craft, the physical rhythm of forge work, and the satisfaction of making lasting things by hand from raw metal.