Unit 9 - Creative Industry Based Jobs

Blacksmith

Blacksmiths shape and join metals such as steel, iron, copper and bronze to make decorative and everyday items. These items include iron gates, railings, furniture, tools and horseshoes. To be a successful blacksmith you will need to have good hand-eye coordination and practical skills. There are not many entry requirements as you would be self employed, all you would need is someone willing to teach you the trade. You can become a blacksmith by learning the trade from an experienced blacksmith who is willing to offer on-the-job training. You can also complete a full-time college course but these are difficult to find and are therefore not required however it is helpful to have experience. 

The expected income can vary depending on the type of blacksmith work you are doing and who you are employed by. As a guideline, you will probably start on a salary of around £12,000 a year. Some other blacksmiths may start employers on £16,000 a year. With experience you could earn between £25,000 and £30,000. As a self employed blacksmith, your earnings would vary depending on the amount of work that you do.