blacksmithing

Blacksmithing is the craft of shaping iron and steel by heating and hammering. Traditional blacksmiths work with ferrous metals to produce tools, hardware, decorative items, and structural components. The central tool is the anvil, used as a hard surface for shaping metal. The forge provides heat, typically reached using coal, coke, or gas. Hammers of various shapes and weights, tongs for handling hot metal, and a quenching vessel for hardening are among essential equipment. Finishing may involve grinding, filing, and polishing.

Process: Metal is heated to a workable temperature; when red-hot, it is removed from the forge and rapidly shaped on the anvil by hammering, drawing, and bending. Repeated cycles of heating and working refine the grain. Welding can merge pieces; forge welding uses a flux and heat to bond iron or steel. After forming, parts may be hardened by quenching in oil or water and tempered to achieve desired hardness and toughness.

History: Blacksmithing has ancient roots with ironworking in bloomery furnaces. In Europe and Asia, it developed into a principal craft of the Middle Ages, producing tools, weapons, and hardware. The rise of industrial production reduced artisanal smithing in some areas, but the craft persists in specialized smithing, bladesmithing, and farriery.

Today, blacksmiths may specialize in blades, small hardware, decorative ironwork, or restoration. Safety practices, including eye protection and ventilation, are integral due to heat, sparks, and fumes.