Welcome to the Bushfire Forge School of Smithing.
I run classes in Blacksmithing, Bladesmithing (knifemaking), swordsmithing and pattern welding (damascus steel) , for both beginners and those with more experience. The school, which opened in January 2008 is fully equipped for 6 students (maximum) providing quality teaching and one-to-one tuition.
I have always been passionate about the hot forging of metal. It is an amazing thing that a material so hard can be formed so exactly and artistically. The ability to forge steel has been fundamental in man’s relationship with tools.
The courses concentrate on hand work with a lot of time spent with a hammer over the anvil. I am not however, adverse to the use of modern methods and tools where appropriate. I have made sure that there are both coke forges and gas forges, so as to give the opportunity of trying both.
I approach the subject of bladesmithing and knife-making in a very contemporary manner and intend to add a current perspective to creating man’s oldest tool. The courses are run using appropriate carbon steels (no using up of old files here!). There is a grinding room for the grinding of blades as well as heat-treating facilities.
Most courses will run as weekend courses with some week-long courses. As well as more formal teaching classes I have open forge days, where those who have already completed a course may come to practice and improve upon the skills learnt under my guidance. This is a great way to use the extensive equipment I have available at bush fire forge.
We also hold special Master Classes with guest teachers.
I teach bladesmithing (knife making) and Damascus as one to one tuition at a cost of £250 a day and can make up a tailored course for your group (minimum of 4 students).
I am also happy to give tuition in the craft of Blacksmithing and lessons in welding (mig, tig and mma) on a 1 to 1 basis or groups by arrangement.
Please add your name to the mailing list to receive information on new blades and courses at Bushfire Forge