Contact Name: Jake Hedge
This craft course provider has been awarded Platinum status for receiving 50 or more 5 star ratings from previous students.
The Students' Choice award ensures that course providers get recognised for their efforts in the teaching and practice of UK craft.
They also allow tutors to gain valuable feedback on their courses and for new students to find the course that's right for them.
I had a fantastic day. I wasn't totally sure what to expect except a flaming hot forge and new t̶o̶y̶s̶ tools to play with (which were definitely there! Somewhat vital...) but I also left with a new appreciation and understanding of the craft. Not only that but quite a collection of creations. I was happily surprised at what can be accomplished in a day. Jake is a very patient (thankfully!) and friendly tutor which made the day a lot of fun. It felt like a gradual build in confidence in the techniques so by the end of the day you're tending the forge and judging the timing. I left feeling like I had been given a real opportunity to experience blacksmithing, and that was just the tip of the iceberg i'm sure. I'd recommend anyone to, well, have a bash. Thanks Jake!
Response from Hedge Ironworks:
Thank you Mia for the great review. You were a pleasure to teach and great fun to have in the workshop! Until the next time!I never had the chance to do any form of metalwork at school or in the many years since. Meeting Jake at his occasional market stall pushed me into 'having a bash'. Absolutely no regrets. This is simple personal tuition in a simple workshop: No glitzy surroundings or presentations. Just a solid 'hands on' day.
Jake's teaching style is patient and understanding, with the aim of producing some hardware at the end. A proper introduction to the craft, giving a great understanding of what is needed to create metalwork.
Response from Hedge Ironworks:
Thank you Steve for the kind words, was a pleasure teaching you! Kind regards, Jake.Very much enjoyed the day. It was a great introduction to blacksmithing. Jake familiarised me with the key equipment that I’d be using and gave a clear demonstration of how to make various items. Jake articulated every step of the process which helped me thoroughly understand the procedure of producing each piece.
The workshop is great, it’s authentic. There’s no computers, no air conditioning; just metal, fire and dripping sweat .
An exceptional day and would recommend to anyone who is looking for an good personal introduction to blacksmithing.
Many thanks Jake.
Well what a brilliant day! Whether you have no idea ,or, think you have, Jake gives hands on tuition, encouragement and guidance on every aspect of what is involved! Relaxed, informative and insightful !
I had reservations of not being up to the job! Well, there is far more to the art. Finesses, precise and so so engaging! I am thoroughly hooked on this ancient yet current art form. Definately an experience that I feel enriched to have had. The history of tools and finishing on this work , left me privileged to have shared with my other half. We both would recommend this unique opportunity! Thank you Jake ! A true gent of your profession and Artistry. Sue and Andrew.
Response from Hedge Ironworks:
Wow, thank you so much for the kind words. It was an absolute pleasure having you both in the workshop!!