A blacksmith is a skilled craftsman, who’s able to make all kinds of beautiful and functional objects from metal. It’s something of a dying art, but you can still find excellent blacksmiths serving customers in and around the Stroud area.

Stroud blacksmith techniques

There is a range of techniques a Stroud blacksmith will use to fashion their creations, which can be both beautiful and useful. The techniques involved in blacksmithing include the following:

• forging the metal – this means subjecting it to high levels of heat so that it becomes malleable
• using special tools to hammer, bend and cut the metal – these tools are often bespoke to the individual blacksmith
• adding the finishing touches to each piece, which will be as unique as the Stroud blacksmith who made it.

Skilled Stroud blacksmiths

These techniques require a great deal of skill, and so all Stroud blacksmiths are likely to have undergone thorough training, often beginning in the form of an apprenticeship, allowing them to learn and hone their craft over time. With experience comes even greater skill, so be sure to ask your Stroud blacksmith about their experience and training, so you can be sure you’re choosing a blacksmith with the skills and artistry to create whatever it is you’re looking for.