Firebird Forge

Firebird Forge is a full working forge which offers traditional and contemporarily designed commissions in various metals; as well as the usual restoration and repair work. The forge is also run, by appointment, as a teaching school in traditional blacksmithing techniques. Although the forge is open to the general public to allow them to come and learn how to blacksmith on a day to day basis, further training is also given to younger smiths in the form of work placements from college. Individuals from as far as Russia and Australia have come to learn to forge at the school and the owner, David Mortimer (Mort the Blacksmith), has carried out commissions across the Uk since the year 2000.

Exterior Ironwork – Traditional Blacksmithing

Gates and Railings

Exterior Ironwork can be made to fit almost anywhere, according to the customers designs or to my own drawings. My interests are in producing high quality decorative railings that are traditionally forged, rather than fabricated plain security rails. In my experience such hand forged railings inevitably lead to an appreciation of the property and will increase the property’s value considerably. All quotes are free as long as they are within a reasonable distance of Wadhurst (20 miles) otherwise a reasonable charge for costs in time and fuel will be applied.

Garden Sculpture And Furniture

Please contact me to discuss designs for any bespoke items for your garden such as arches, benches or garden sculptures. I will happily draw up digital images and free quotes for your consideration.

Ironwork Restoration – Traditional Blacksmithing

A significant amount of my commission work is the restoration of traditional ironwork, either for prestige estate gates, commercial properties or from period households. The techniques involved in creating traditional ironwork are the same techniques used in its restoration all all guidelines for restoration, as laid down by the NHIG, are diligently followed.

All restoration work is photographed in situ prior to any work being undertaken, as is the work processes then done to the pieces, along with the finished work.

A full report will then be produced for the property owner and for the local listing authorities if required. Wrought iron is generally used in the repairs rather than mild steel. Most repaired work is then hot zinc sprayed and professionally painted so it will last indefinitely but this depends upon advise from the local authorities if the property is protected. At all times the local listing officers are kept informed and made aware of all the aspects of the restoration process.