The art of blacksmithing is relatively new to me; My grandad was a blacksmith, but unfortunately he passed away before he could teach me. I started a few years ago, using a small home-built forge, in which I make the things I liked. Things that provide technical challenges and, by way of trial and error I learn about blacksmithing. I never went to a technical college so everything has to be learnt in a non conventional way. I also learn from working alongside established blacksmiths.
Like any I had to make some of my tools myself, others I carefully sourced. I now run a gas forge along with a coal forge which enables me to control the heat and make different things. Forging is enjoyable and physically demanding. I like seeing the indentations and hammer marks on a piece of metal. In a lot of the things I make the metal is worked in full. No smooth pieces from the foundry produced steel stock are be left un-touched by hammer and anvil. In other pieces the hammering is kept to a minimum to achieve a more sleek modern look. Different approaches and the fact that everything is hand made makes no two pieces alike. |
Feel free to take a look at my facebook page (Albert Hoogland)
Most of the things I make are for sale, but if you have anything specific in mind, let me know; I'm open to accept commissions.
Send me an email if you are interested.
Most of the things I make are for sale, but if you have anything specific in mind, let me know; I'm open to accept commissions.
Send me an email if you are interested.