Ornamental Blacksmith

An ornamental blacksmith uses the same tools as a farrier or agricultural blacksmith to great custom designed metal works of art for homes, business and other venues. The ornamental blacksmith uses a traditional forge and blacksmith equipment to make fancy gates, staircases, metal sculptures, wrought iron designs, signs, and the very popular iron silhouettes and other yard and garden decorations. Some projects that an ornamental blacksmith uses may be both decorative and functional such as an ornamental gate or sign.

The ornamental blacksmith starts that project by talking to the customer and finding out what he or she wants. Most blacksmiths will have some pictures or ideas as a starting point for the customers, then will customize this even further. Those blacksmiths that have computer graphic programs or artistic abilities may provide either computer-generated models of the final project or a pencil or ink sketch. Once the client modifies it the blacksmith then begins working with the metal to make the item. This can involve several weeks of forging, hammering, cooling, grinding and shaping the item. Since metal can only be molded and worked with at certain temperatures this can be a very time consuming process as the metal must cool between changes and additions.

Most blacksmiths have some formal training through a farrier or blacksmith college or vocational program. Many also belong to at least on of the various blacksmith guilds around the world. Apprenticeships and training programs focus on hands-on training as well as understanding the various metals and equipment used in the process of making something from metal.

Common work activities include:

• Meeting with clients and developing a concept of the project.
• Creating a sketch or computer generated graphic of the project and then making modifications as requested by the customer.
• Pricing, billing and collecting deposits and final payments for projects.
• Working to complete projects on deadlines and within the timeframes outlined by the customers.
• Delivering and installing the projects if required. Making modifications to the final project if requested by the client.
• Advertising, attending craft fairs and marketing metal ornaments and items to increase sales.

Programs related to Ornamental Blacksmith careers

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