Blade Basics
£1604 hoursChoose a pre-treated blank blade with a handle, or hand forge a basic blade. Grind, shape and polish your creation in a hands-on introduction to knifemaking.
Learn bladesmithing properly
My bladesmithing experiences are taught at my forge in Elland, West Yorkshire. Depending on the course you choose, you will forge a blade from steel, cut, heat treat, grind, shape and polish it, and fit the handle of your choice.
All tools, protective equipment and instruction are provided, and you are taught one to one unless you book as a group. Complete beginners are welcome, from age 11.
Choose your course
Sharper Skills
£2808 hoursForge your own blade, then cut, heat treat, grind, shape and polish it. Choose a modern or traditional handle and refine the design in a fully immersive day.
Damascus Dreams – Blade Mastery
£4602 full daysCreate your own masterpiece in stunning Damascus steel. Choose a handle from stabilised wood or high-grade acrylic Kirinite, then shape, refine and craft your perfect blade.
Prices are per person. Book together and save: 2 people 10% off, 3 people 20% off, 4 people 30% off.
Take home something you made
Handles can be modern or traditional. On my Damascus course you can choose stabilised wood or high-grade acrylic Kirinite. Every knife is shaped to your design, so no two are the same.
Timings are approximate. It is always more important that you leave with a blade you are happy with, even if it takes a little longer than booked.
A word from me
Blacksmithing found me by accident. I tried it for fun, found out how hard it was, and had to learn it properly. I like teaching it for exactly that reason: it is hard, and that is why making something real is so satisfying. You are taught by me, one to one, and I will happily keep going a little longer to make sure you leave with a blade you are proud of.
“Whatever you want to make, I will find a way to help you make it.”
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.