Blacksmithing: Coat Rack

Teacher: Tõnis Luik

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Tõnis Luik is a graduate of the Vana-Vigala Technical and Service School in the field of blacksmithing and the University of Tartu Viljandi Culture Academy’s native blacksmithing speciality. Tõnis teaches blacksmithing at the academy, works as a coordinator of the Viljandi Centre for Creative Industries smiths centre and teaches continuing education in the same field. He is an active member of the Estonian Association of Blacksmiths.

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Blacksmithing has existed in Estonia for about 2,500 years. The term refers to the working of heated metal. In the past, smithing was used to produce items of both practical use – tools and weapons – and decorative items like jewellery. Artistic works such as sculptures are also created nowadays.

In the course, participants will learn about the primary manual smithing and surface treatment methods, gaining an overview of tools of the trade, familiarizing themselves with the machinery in a forge, techniques for using them, and general work safety requirements. They will produce a wrought iron item by the end of the course.

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At the beginning of the workshop, participants will practise the basic techniques of blacksmithing. After that, participants will forge a few nails to hone their skills. Next, a coat rack is made using various forging techniques. Participants can choose to make a large rack with several hooks or separate smaller wall hooks.

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Accessories, materials and equipment used during the course: steel, carbon, safety goggles, aprons, leather gloves, steel brushes, beeswax. During the workshop, participants should wear clothes made from natural, non-synthetic fibres, and footwear should protect the whole foot.

This course is suitable for beginners and intermediate-level participants.