Welcome
Creating traditional metalwork for a modern world.
From his forge on the border of Wiltshire and Dorset, blacksmith Ian Thackray combines age old methods with modern equipment to create a wide range of commissions and stock items, forged to last for generations to come.
Portfolio
A brief glimpse at some of the commissions to come out of the forge.
About
Starting his journey into blacksmithing in 2008, Ian has taken time to practice and hone his skills, specialising in traditional blacksmithing, modern engineering and fabrication. Ian is able to offer a wide range of services from sympathetic restoration and repairs, to the creation of modern architectural pieces.
Since establishing his business, Ian has had the opportunity to do significant work at some quite magnificent places including Highgate Cemetery, The Newt in Somerset, Hillsborough Castle, RHS Wisley as well as The Chelsea Flower Show in 2022.
Keen to talk about his passion for history, Ian has displayed his knowledge of ancient metalwork several times on television including Channel 4's Great British Dig and Time Crashers. He has also done on screen work as a blacksmith in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film, Eternals as well as providing props for film and television as well as training to actors portraying blacksmiths.
Ian currently holds the Certificate of Merit, awarded by the Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths and, sits on the council for the National Heritage Ironworks Group (N.H.I.G.)
An Introduction To Blacksmithing
1 person - £175,
2 or more - £150 per person
The day runs from 9 - 4:30 and covers the basic of blacksmithing. The aim of the day is to make a wide variety of items that allow you to try your hand at a multitude of blacksmithing skills. If you have a project you would like to work on, then make sure to let Ian know in advance.
Beginner Knife Making
1 person - £200,
2 or more - £175 per person
The day runs from 9 - 4:30. By the end of the day, you will have your own knife based on either the Finnish puukko knife or a Viking utilities knife. The course will cover technical elements such as fire welding, heat treating as well as sharpening and maintaining your blades.
Beginner Axe Making
1 person - £200,
2 or more - £175 per person
By the end of the day, you will be have your own hatchet sized axe head to take home with you. The course will cover punching and drifting, fire welding, heat treating as well as sharpening, maintaining and safely using your newly forged axe head.
Teaching
Ian offers a variety of blacksmith experience days. In order to provide the best experience possible (and unless otherwise requested), Ian will run the days with only one or two people at a time, Have a Go Blacksmithing is great fun for birthdays, Christmas as well as Hen and Stag Do’s or, if you just need a wonderful source of hands-on stress relief!
Courses can be booked on weekdays and Saturdays.
Media Work
Over the years Ian has worked both in front of, and behind the camera. Not only has he appeared as a blacksmith in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film Eternals and Maleficent, he has also acted as a consultant to help with set design, Health and Safety reports, prop design & construction, as well as offering training for actors portraying blacksmiths.
Ian has also had the chance to talk and demonstrate his passion for historical blacksmithing on television (Time Crashers and The Great British Dig) as well as supplying historically accurate tools, equipment and props.
Ian is also happy to take part in photography or filming projects such as this one.
Contact
If you would like to engage Ian’s services for commissions or to discuss a future project then do feel free to get in touch.
Telephone
07590429696
Visit*
The Forge,
Higher Farm,
Chettle,
Dorset,
DT11 8DA
*For visits please arrange in advance as I might be out on site.
