A traditional metal craftsperson who shapes iron and steel using forge, hammer, and anvil.
What blacksmiths do
Blacksmiths heat and shape iron and steel by hand-forging at the anvil, producing items ranging from architectural hardware and sculpture to knives, tools, and decorative ironwork. Many also forge weld, twist, punch, and finish work with chasing and patinas.
Training path
Most contemporary blacksmiths learn through apprenticeships or short residencies at craft schools such as Penland, Peters Valley, or the John C. Campbell Folk School. The Artist-Blacksmith’s Association of North America hosts the largest training conference.
Work setting
Independent custom blacksmiths sell at craft fairs and through galleries; others demonstrate at historic sites such as Colonial Williamsburg, work as bladesmiths producing knives, or operate as farriers shoeing horses.
Find more professions by letter
Blacksmith starts with B and ends with H. Browse other professions along the same letter.
Professions that contain a letter from "Blacksmith":