While many people believe blacksmithing to be a dying craft or a practice of medieval times, the truth is that we use blacksmithing products and techniques every day. Learn why blacksmithing is still an important profession and viable career by exploring what it is that modern blacksmiths do.
Blacksmiths Craft Useful Tools
Blacksmiths can create a variety of useful tools for use and sale. Blacksmiths create tools and items such as kitchen utensils, horseshoes, hammers, and other functional pieces. Different classes of blacksmiths also create different tools and even weapons. For example, bladesmiths are a type of blacksmith who craft knives, swords, and other blades as replica pieces, decoration, or props. Blacksmiths are also important for making repairs on metal tools, decorations, and other pieces.
Blacksmiths Can Create Artwork
Not only do modern blacksmiths create useful tools, but they can also turn their materials into functional artwork. Many blacksmiths create decorative fences, railings, and other design elements for home and business use. Additionally, there are many categories of other smiths who also use similar techniques to create art. Jewelry making is also a form of blacksmithing and borrows many techniques from traditional blacksmithing. Another type of smith that often produces art is the Brownsmith, who often works with brass, copper, and other specific metallic materials.
Industrial Applications Utilize Blacksmithing Techniques
Blacksmithing techniques are also very valuable in a variety of industrial applications. Many industrial facilities and manufacturers use techniques such as metal manipulation, smelting, heat treatments, forging, welding, and more to create many metallic products and parts we use today. Without blacksmithing techniques, equipment, and technology, we wouldn’t be able to use these processes in manufacturing.
If you’ve started blacksmithing as a hobby but are hesitant to take your skills to the professional level, hopefully these facts help illustrate why blacksmithing can still be an important profession today. Modern blacksmiths get to enjoy working with their hands and creating beautifully crafted tools and art pieces. If you’re ready to get going in your blacksmithing career, find a local apprenticeship or blacksmithing expert to start.
