Metal Crafts

This is a very broad category, focusing on

                                     ...and more...  

For crafts involving precious metals, particularly gold and silver, see also: JEWELRY.

 
See also: Gunsmithing; Silversmiths; Knives & Knife-Makers

METAL crafts focus on the making and repairing of objects from basic metals, such as iron, steel, copper, brass, tin, gold, silver, and pewter.  Some semi-archaic terms for various types of metal crafts are familiar, but other terms are no longer so well-known in the 21st century: 

A “blacksmith” works with iron and steel (this is what is usually meant when referring just to a "smith"). A “bladesmith” forges knives, swords, and other blades. A “brownsmith” works with brass and copper. A “coppersmith” works with copper. A “goldsmith” works with gold. A “gunsmith” builds and repairs firearms. A “locksmith” works with locks. A “silversmith,” or “brightsmith,” works with silver. A “tinsmith,” “tinner,” or “tinker” works with light metal (such as tinware) and can refer to someone who deals in tinware. A “whitesmith” works with white metal (tin and pewter) and can refer to someone who polishes or finishes the metal rather than forging it.

HISTORY: Many blacksmiths and other metal workers were listed in early Kentucky directories, newspapers, and manufacturers' census records.  In 1794 a maker of Windsor chairs identified his Lexington business as being "next door to Mr. White the Coppersmith."  And coppersmiths often highlighted their ability to create stills... 

Blacksmithing and Decorative Ironwork


Custom Metal Art:


Farriery (Horseshoes and Equine Foot Care)

Farriery, or the shoeing of horses and similar animals, is an ancient craft, believed to have been practiced first in the Roman Empire.


Pewterware:


Copper and Tin Smiths:


Silversmiths: (see also: Jewelry)


Welded Metal Sculpture:


ORGANIZATIONS:


BIBLIOGRAPHY