What will you do?
You prepare equipment, raw materials and tools, mark out the workpiece, make templates and shape the metal. You then machine parts where needed, assemble the components, finish the piece and install it on location. The trade has many faces: from art blacksmith and ornamental smith to coppersmith or bronze caster.
- Define the production steps of the craft
- Prepare equipment, raw materials and tools
- Mark out workpieces and make templates
- Shape metal and carry out machining operations
- Assemble components and finish the piece
- Install metal workpieces on location
- Always work safely
Skills to develop
- Strength and stamina for heavy manual work
- Precision in shaping and finishing metal
- Technical insight into materials and joining techniques
- Creativity for decorative pieces
Your foundation for this occupation
Artisan metalwork includes forging, sheet work and decorative structures. Choose training matching the workshop's techniques. Dimensions and material knowledge matter alongside joints and final installation. A decorative object and a functional gate need different assessment.
From preparation to your first day
Develop the practical skills
Translate a sketch into dimensions and a trial joint before making the whole piece. Practise repeatable shapes with templates and check component fit throughout. Agree materials and indoor or outdoor finish. Heating, tools and assembly follow trained safe methods.
Check your work
Check dimensions, fit, edges and finish before transport. Installation fixings and substrate must match the design. Refer structural questions to the responsible qualified person. Restoration also needs documentation so original details are not unintentionally removed.
How can you grow?
Specialisations include ornamental forging, objects, restoration and bespoke interiors. Show joints and finishes as well as designs in your portfolio. Quotations need materials, trials, surface treatment and installation.
Frequently asked questions
Can decorative metalwork always be designed freely?
A freestanding art object differs from a loaded railing, gate or structural part. Function and fixing constrain design. Establish who defines technical requirements and dimensions before fabrication.