The blacksmith's job is to heat metal with fire to forge, make repairs and create welds. About two-thirds of locksmiths work in the manufacturing sector, but if you have an artistic inclination you can use your skills to create decorative railings and gates, as well as metal furniture and sculptures. To become a locksmith requires a good dose of physical strength, but also the passing of a training course and the development of the necessary skills.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Training to Learn the Trade
Step 1. Read books about the profession and art of the blacksmith
Step 2. Attend a training course or a vocational school with a specialization in this sector, to learn the basic skills of the trade
- Start with a course that teaches oxyacetylene (gas) flame welding, to learn how to light the torch, how to safely handle hot metal, how to handle canisters and what safety equipment to use when welding.
- Learn to control the heat in the forge, both coal-fired and gas-fired.
- Familiarize yourself with the tools used by blacksmiths, such as anvil, hammer, pliers, and awl. Practice using these tools correctly.
- Learn basic techniques, including drawing, brazing, cutting, riveting, and upsetting.
Step 3. Learn the latest metalworking techniques required to become a skilled and competent blacksmith
- Learn the technique of plasma cutting, what distance must be between the electrode and the metal, the angle at which the electrode must be held and what amperage must be used to cut metal bars of different thickness.
- Become proficient in MIG (metal inert gas) and TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding. MIG welding requires a reel which is fed continuously and is useful for longer pieces of metal. TIG welding requires a rod and is effective for welding aluminum.
Step 4. Attend an apprenticeship program, where you will be able to hone the skills needed to learn the profession
- Contact the trade associations to find out if and when they organize stages and internships.
- Qualify for the internship by demonstrating what locksmith skills you have already acquired.
- Subscribe to associations or professional registers of the category in your country and around the world.
Step 5. Hone your skills by working as a blue collar apprentice
By being an apprentice, you will have the opportunity to work at a professional blacksmith's shop. Here you will learn a variety of different styles and maybe have the chance to collaborate with an architect on the design of old and new metal works.
Method 2 of 2: Professional Outlets
Step 1. Find a job as a locksmith in the commercial sector
Manufacturers of many types of machines, means of transport and railings require the skills of locksmiths.
Step 2. Open your blacksmith shop
- Purchase blacksmith tools, such as various calibrated hammers, anvil, forge, and pliers. These tools and other materials are available from specialist suppliers and online.
- Choose which branch of the profession you wish to specialize in. You can work together with architects and builders to create details for houses, you can create and sell sculptures or work in collaboration with museums to create replicas of historical artifacts.
Step 3. Become a demonstrator of blacksmith techniques in living museums, fairs, market shows and festivals
Apply and register directly or through trade union and trade associations.
