- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- design skills and knowledge
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- thinking and reasoning skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- to be flexible and open to change
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- knowledge of English language
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
For each job, you'll:
- sketch out new design plans or follow customer instructions
- heat metals to the right temperature in a forge or furnace
- shape metals with hand tools like hammers, punches and anvils
- use power tools, like drills, lathes and hydraulic presses
- join metal parts together using riveting and welding methods
- apply finishes
You may need to wear protective clothing.
You could work in a factory, in a workshop or in a foundry workshop.
Your working environment may be physically demanding, hot and noisy.
As an experienced artist blacksmith you could set up your own gallery. You could also teach craft skills.
As an industrial blacksmith, you could move into workshop management. You could also train to become a design engineer.
You can get more details about working as an artist blacksmith from the British Artist Blacksmiths Association.
You can also find out more about working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.
