Family run since 1982, we are based in Worcestershire producing a vast range of work. Small to large domestic to commercial. Working out of a large workshop we blend modern fabrication and blacksmithing to try and forge a niche in the market. Always looking to take on challenging work and produce new products.
The Thirsty Bear Blacksmithing Company is an artistic metalworking studio using the ancient art of blacksmithing to create contemporary and traditional metalwork that blows people’s minds. It is run by artist blacksmith Jake Bowers. It’s called Thirsty Bear Blacksmithing Company because I work very hard, am partial to a berry or two and have a few cubs to feed.
Using a coke-fired forge, where steel bars are heated and then forged over an anvil, I can guarantee that all products have the individual touch of a craftsman. We’re big enough to cope with any job but small enough to guarantee the kind of attention to detail that you should expect from an expert craftman.
Jake graduated with a triple distinction Extended diploma in Blacksmithing and Metalwork from Plumpton College and trained as a silversmith at Helliden’s Folkhogskola in Sweden in 1998. He also holds a journeyman’s certificate from Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths founded in 1299.
On this website you’ll see galleries of my completed work and works in progress. I produce everything from traditional wrought iron gates in steel to jewellery in precious metals for a variety of public and private clients. I also use this website to share what we’re up to with our latest commissions with our customers.
The Thirsty Bear Forge has been a member of Checkatrade, Britain’s premier source of vetted, reputable tradespeople since July 2014, which means you can independently verify what previous customers have said about our work. It’s a hard won reputation I guard very passionately and think about every time I start a piece of work.
Anvil Forge is a small Blacksmith and Metalworking company specialising in small and medium size projects with a bias for traditional and contemporary designs but willing to consider most proposals. We work with clients , architects , local authorities , schools etc etc. and try to offer an cost effective design without compromising design and quality.
Anvil Forge also offer experience days with various themes from the traditional ‘blacksmith day’ to one or two day knife making classes or maybe our ‘starwars / sci fi classes for something a bit more unusual !
for more information please get in touch and ask us your question .
Paddy & Graham have between them 30 years’ experience of blacksmithing and bladesmithing. We run courses in sword making, blacksmith tools, hammers, welding and fabrication. On the sword and hammer making courses the student has the use of 2 air hammers, 2 hydraulic presses and a flypress. All modern tools are also used to make the courses easier for students such as grinders. find us on, https://www.craftcourses.com/providers/art-of-fire-crafts
Iron workshop, all year round highly professional blacksmithing school and a sculpture park, all in the same place.
Established in 2017 by myself Jay Hall, I offer outstanding workmanship and attention to detail to any project.
I have a background in engineering, welding and education and have been fortunate enough to combine this experience with the passion I have for the ancient art of blacksmithing and transform it in to my business and career.
I completed with distinction, the Design and Forgework Skills course at the National School of Blacksmithing in Hereford and was awarded The Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths Stanly Alcard Memorial trophy.
I’m always available to discuss projects or commissions large or small, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
A metal sculptor using traditional blacksmithing techniques. Employing traditional and the modern.
Innovative designs.
Using a variety of metals in his work, copper, iron, steel, stainless steel, brass etc.
Repousse work (sheet metal shaping, forming, chasing).
Fabrication work, Some restoration work.
Garden Sculptures.
Modelling for foundry work. Some small scale casting.
Public demonstrations, small class teaching. Qualified for Adult teaching.
Enhanced DBS Checked