Choose blacksmithing if
You want to try the forge itself: heating steel in the fire and shaping it at the anvil with hammer and tongs. Blacksmithing suits people who would like to make something decorative or useful, such as a hook or a small piece of ironwork, and it is the most hands-on way to feel what the forge is like.
Forge Fundamentals (2 hours, £90) is the best first taster. Hammer & Heat (half day, 4 hours, £145) gives time for a few small pieces or one medium-sized standout piece. Forge Mastery (8 hours, £260) is a full day with carbon steel and more challenging techniques.
Choose knife making if
The person wants to go home with a blade. Knife making adds grinding, shaping and polishing to the forge work, and on the longer courses, heat treatment and fitting a handle.
Blade Basics (4 hours, £160) is the introduction: choose a pre-treated blank blade with a handle, or hand forge a basic blade, then grind, shape and polish it. Sharper Skills (8 hours, £280) means forging your own blade and heat treating it, with a modern or traditional handle. Damascus Dreams (2 full days, £460) is for creating a knife in Damascus steel, with a handle of stabilised wood or Kirinite acrylic.
Still not sure?
If it is a first visit and you are unsure, a short session is an easy start: Forge Fundamentals for blacksmithing, or Blade Basics for knives. Everyone is welcome from age 11, complete beginners included, and all tools, protective equipment and instruction are provided.
Coming together? Couples, friends and families can book together, and 2 people save 10%, 3 save 20% and 4 save 30%. Gift certificates are emailed straight away, valid for 2 years, and the recipient chooses their date with me. Message me on 07593 325089 and I will help you pick.
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.
Best sellers
His work is art.William, Etsy, December 2025View on Etsy
Customer favourites
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
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.
Will I be taught alone or in a group?
You are taught one to one, unless you have booked as a group.
How long is a gift certificate valid for?
Gift certificates are valid for 2 years, and can be renewed in extenuating circumstances.
Is there a discount for booking together?
Yes. Book together and save: 2 people 10% off, 3 people 20% off, 4 people 30% off.
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.