metallslöjd

Metallslöjd is the craft and study of shaping metal to create functional or decorative objects. In Sweden and other Nordic contexts it is part of the broader tradition of slöjd, emphasizing practical skills, design, and hands-on making. Metallslöjd covers traditional smithing as well as sheet metal work, casting, soldering, and surface finishing, and its outputs can range from household tools to jewelry and artwork.

Historically metalworking spans ancient to modern times, but in education metallslöjd emerged as a formal discipline in the 19th and 20th centuries to develop craft competencies, material awareness, and problem solving. Nordic practice often stresses accessibility and safety, with projects scaled to the learner's experience and available tools.

Techniques used in metallslöjd include forging and hammering, bending and shaping sheet metal, riveting and joinery, soldering and brazing, welding, and various casting methods (such as sand casting). Finishing steps include filing, polishing, patination, and enameling. Common tools are anvils, vises, hammers, tongs, saws, files, torches, and rivet sets. Materials range from iron and steel to copper, brass, aluminum, pewter, and metal alloys; scrap metal is frequently used in educational settings to teach reuse and recycling.

Applications extend from everyday objects—cutlery, containers, hardware—to decorative pieces and jewelry. In contemporary practice, metallslöjd blends traditional handwork with modern fabrication methods and design thinking, often in school, community workshops, or artist studios.

Safety and responsible practice are central, with instruction on proper PPE, ventilation, tool handling, and risk awareness.

See also: metalworking, smithing, jewelry making.