Forge Fundamentals
£902 hoursA taster and a perfect first experience. Come and create a small item, something decorative or useful.
What happens on the day
My forge is in Elland, near Halifax in Calderdale. You are taught one to one by me, Leon, a working blacksmith who has run Bionic Cat Blacksmiths as a family business since 2015. Metal is heated in the fire, moved to the anvil and drawn into shape with hammer and tongs, the way ironwork has been made for centuries.
All tools, protective equipment and instruction are provided, and there is always tea and coffee on hand. Whatever you want to make, I will find a way to help you make it.
Choose your experience
Hammer & Heat
£145Half day · 4 hoursForge your own art. Turn raw metal into something special, either a few small pieces or a medium-sized standout piece.
Forge Mastery
£2608 hoursGet hands-on with carbon steel and learn challenging techniques to craft your own decorative or practical masterpiece.
Prices are per person. Book together and save: 2 people 10% off, 3 people 20% off, 4 people 30% off.
Who it is for
Experience days suit individuals, couples, friends, families with children aged 11 and over, celebrations and company away days. No experience is needed, only a willingness to get a little warm and a bit dirty.
Join hundreds of satisfied customers who have left the forge with memories and mementos to last a lifetime. Rated 5.0 on Google from 10 reviews and 4.9 on Etsy from 40.
A word from me
I fell into blacksmithing by accident, and I have never quite got over the thrill of it. My favourite moment is always the same: someone, especially a child, realises they can do this with their own hands, and you see a sudden light in their eyes. Whatever your age or skill, everybody has left my forge with a smile on their face.
“You never know what you can do until you try it, and I guarantee you will be amazed.”
Leon Williamson, Bionic Cat Blacksmiths
Videos
Watch me at the forge
More on my YouTube channel.
My Etsy shop
Little pieces from the forge, delivered to your door
Between the big commissions, I forge smaller pieces for my Etsy shop: wands, handles, hooks and stands. Rated 4.9 from 40 reviews. Never settle for off the shelf: if you want something made your way, just ask me.
Forged wandsHand-twisted, one off wands. A gift for any wizard.Shop on Etsy
Crystal ball standsA forged claw to hold a crystal ball or scrying orb.Shop on Etsy
Door handlesTwisted steel handles, made to last for generations.Shop on Etsy
Dice hooks and handlesCabinet handles and coat hooks forged from stacked dice.Shop on Etsy
Best sellers
Dragon claw door handlesHand forged in solid steel, twisted and folded to look like dragon scales. Blackened, brushed steel or brass finish. From £72.
His work is art.William, Etsy, December 2025View on Etsy
Hanging basket bracketsHand-forged steel wall brackets, 12 inches high and rated to hold up to 50kg. Other sizes made on request. £144.View on Etsy
Rebar knotted door handlesIndustrial rebar, hand forged into a knot. Fits standard doors, in brushed, blackened or painted finishes. From £84.View on Etsy
Customer favourites
Cymbal anvilFor tuning, modifying and making unique cymbals.
The anvil is perfect and beautifully shaped - fantasticNorbert, Etsy, September 2026View on Etsy Wand, sword and knife display standA hand forged steel stand with a patterned finish, to show off your favourite piece.
Beautiful item and craftsmanship is awesome.Shaik, Etsy, September 2025View on Etsy
Dates & news
Find a date, or hear about new ones
I teach Wednesday to Friday and every other weekend. Have a look at my free dates, then message me to book, or pop your email in below to hear about new dates first.
Before you book
Frequently asked questions
How old do I need to be?
The minimum age for my experience days is 11 years old. Complete beginners are welcome.
What should I wear?
Please wear natural fibres, such as cotton or wool, and sensible footwear. I provide all tools, protective equipment and instruction, and there is always tea and coffee available.
Will I be taught alone or in a group?
You are taught one to one, unless you have booked as a group.
Where is the forge and is there parking?
I am at Bridge End Works, 7a Unit 3, Saddleworth Road, Elland HX5 0RY, West Yorkshire. There is parking just over the road.
Can I change my date?
Yes. Bookings can be rescheduled with 24 hours' notice.
Will I definitely finish what I am making?
Timings are approximate. It is always more important that you leave with a piece you are happy with, even if it takes a little longer than booked.
How long is a gift certificate valid for?
Gift certificates are valid for 2 years, and can be renewed in extenuating circumstances.