Lesson’s from the forge: A new Blacksmith’s Perspective

Getting started in blacksmithing is exciting—but also a little overwhelming. There's fire, heavy tools, and metal that doesn't always do what you want it to. If you're just starting out (or thinking about it), here's some honest advice from the other side of the learning curve.

1. You Don’t Need Fancy Tools to Begin

Most people assume that when they start Blacksmithing they need the “right” anvil, a huge forge, and a full shop of tools. Truth is, you can start small. A chunk of steel can be an anvil. A brake drum or even a small propane torch forge will get you going. As long as you have a way to heat metal and something solid to hammer on, you’re in the game.

Start simple. Learn the techniques. The tools will come.

2. Hammer Control Matters More Than Strength

Many assume that blacksmithing is all about muscle, which is wrong. It’s about control. Learning how to strike accurately, at the right angle, with the right force, is way more important than just hitting hard.

In the beginning, focus on rhythm and precision—not power. Your arm (and your metal) will thank you.

3. You Will Make a Lot of Ugly Things—and That’s Fine

Not everything you make will be pretty. Or even functional. And that’s okay. The first ten hooks you forge might all be slightly bent, twisted, or uneven. But each one teaches you something.

Progress isn’t measured by perfection—it’s measured by improvement. Keep your first projects. One day, they’ll show you how far you’ve come.

4. Learn to Read the Heat

Understanding steel’s colour at different temperatures is one of the most useful (and underrated) skills in blacksmithing. It affects how the metal moves, whether you can harden it, or if you’re about to burn it. Learning how to watch the steel can tell you everything—if you’re paying attention.

5. Don’t Skip Safety

I learned this the hard way: gloves can catch fire, safety glasses are non-negotiable, and hot metal looks a lot like cold metal once it’s out of the fire.

Set up good habits early. Clear your workspace, wear protective gear, and respect the forge. You don’t need to be paranoid—just cautious and consistent.

6. There’s a Whole Community Willing to Help

You don’t have to figure everything out by yourself, the blacksmithing community is full of generous people—online forums, local smithing groups, YouTube creators, and weekend classes.

Ask questions. Share your work. Nobody starts as an expert, and most experienced smiths are happy to offer tips and encouragement.

7. This Craft Will Teach You Patience

Nothing humbles you like trying to forge two identical scrolls… and failing five times before they look close. Blacksmithing requires patience and persistence. It’s not fast. It’s not easy. But it’s incredibly rewarding.

Final Thought

If you’re new to blacksmithing, don’t get discouraged. We all start somewhere—usually with crooked nails, burned knuckles, and a confused look on our faces. But if you stick with it, you’ll develop not just skills, but a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship, focus, and hard work.

And one day, you’ll look back at your first project and say, “I had no idea what I was doing… but I’m glad I started.”