Richard Bent FWCB of Devon, Eminent Master Blacksmith working at Red Anvil Forge, at Halwell near Totnes.
Who and where?
Richard Bent, an Eminent Master Blacksmith, operates at Red Anvil Forge in Halwell, Devon.
I am recognised for my expertise, holding a Silver Medal and being a Fellow of the Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths (WCB)
I create hot forged items using both traditional and modern techniques, drawing inspiration from the beautiful rural landscape of South Devon.
I have been awarded Champion Blacksmith over the years most recently in 2024 (Static class) and again in 2025 by the WCB.
I run BLACKSMITHING EXPERIENCE DAYS for those who wish to see just what can be created from a piece of metal!
October2024 Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths Awards Luncheon
WHAT IS A BLACKSMITH?
The blacksmith in 21st century Britain, is as important now as at any time in history. The blacksmith today, still fashions hot metal, by hand on an anvil, but the craft calls for much more than pure tradition in the present day.
The blacksmith is a multi talented individual, forging, bending and shaping, are skills using a hammer.
Riveting is a traditional way of joining components, but today there are a variety of electric and gas welding processes, which the blacksmith can use and must master.
The blacksmith in modern society, is best placed to advise clients on what may be the ideal solution for their needs. That need may be architectural, decorative or structural. Because the blacksmith understands the strengths of metals, as well as the effect of processes and heat in changing the physical properties of the metals, the blacksmith is the expert metalworker in modern society.
At Red Anvil Forge, a modern approach is taken towards the craft of the blacksmith. Modern facilities and equipment at Red Anvil Forge underpin this ancient craft, to ensure the survival of the blacksmith in society
Over 200 images of my work can be seen on Flickr, look me up at Richard Bent, more images and video on Instagram @redanvilforge
BLACKSMITHING EXPERIENCE DAYS - WHAT TO EXPECT
One day Experience Day with Richard Bent, Blacksmith offering expert tuition in Basic Blacksmithing, suitable for the absolute beginner
I am Richard Bent FWCB, a Silver medal holder from the Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths, and offer Experience Days in the Basic Skills of Blacksmithing from my well equipped workshop/forge in Halwell, nr Totnes, Devon. I offer a day's Blacksmithing Experience to the absolute beginner and those who may wish to build on previous experience. Attendees will leave their Experience day having, at their own pace, produced several different projects and an overwhelming sense of achievement. (PLEASE NOTE: We do Not offer knife or blade making courses)
Please note: Students must be 17 years and over, please (this is mandated by our insurers).
WHAT IS INCLUDED: The course fee includes:
1. All tuition
2. PPE - safety glasses, gloves
3. Use of equipment
4. Tea/Coffee and biscuits on arrival, mid-morning break and afternoon break
5. Bottled water
NOT INCLUDED:
1. Students are requested to bring their own packed lunch
AVAILABILITY:
Each course offers up to FIVE student places.
CLICK HERE FOR details of your exciting Blacksmithing Experience
