Job profile: blacksmith

Overview

Blacksmiths create ornamental and functional objects by hot forging a wide range of metals.

Full Description

Responsibilities

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.

Artist blacksmiths work with metal to create architectural and decorative pieces such as gates, sculpture and furniture. Some also restore antique ironwork. Many artist blacksmiths produce work to their own style and designs. They also create pieces to suit specific commissions from individuals or organisations.

Industrial blacksmiths produce purely functional items for use in industry and company premises, such as specialist tools, fire escapes or security grills. They may also create work to meet specific customer requirements. Blacksmiths may occasionally be employed as part of a team of blacksmiths to create and complete larger pieces of work.

Skills associated with this job

Work activities

Work activities vary according to the type of blacksmithing and the specific project or 'commission':

  • They may go on a site visit to discuss requirements with a customer and to take measurements. They would then make a working drawing and decide on the types and amounts of materials needed for the project.
  • They mark up and cut out the metal to be heated in the forge. Each metal is heated to the correct temperature in preparation for shaping and joining by fire welding or modern welding techniques. The blacksmith uses a variety of forgework techniques such as drawing down, twisting, punching and traditional joining methods.
  • When the construction is complete, the metal has to be 'finished'. If the piece is for indoor use, such as a chair, it might be polished and protected with wax or linseed oil. If it is for outdoor use such as a gate, it might be grit-blasted, cleaned, sprayed with zinc and then painted.
  • As well as the more traditional hand tools, blacksmiths also work with power tools such as power hammers, drills, air chisels and hydraulic presses.

They may also use engineering machinery such as centre lathes, millers and grinders, as well as electric arc, MIG or TIG welding equipment.

Knowledge

  • knowledge of health and safety issues and processes relating to blacksmith work
  • an understanding of the properties of different metals.
  • knowledge of the different applications for forged or wrought metal work

Skills

  • technical problem-solving
  • be able to do basic calculations
  • have good business skills if self-employed.
  • have good technical and manual handling skills
  • organisation skills

Behaviours and personal qualities

  • be physically fit and have a good level of stamina
  • have a creative approach and an eye for design
  • an interest in different types of metals and forgework techniques
  • happy to work in a hot and noisy work environment
Back to top

Page tools

  • Email this

Search this section