The New York State Designer Blacksmiths (NYSDB) is a 501(c)3 not for profit group of individuals who share a common interest in maintaining and sharing the craft and art of blacksmithing.
We come together to share this interest and explore both historic and modern techniques. The NYSDB’s primary mission is educational. We wish to:
- Encourage and facilitate the establishment of training programs for aspiring blacksmiths
- Disseminate information about sources of material and equipment
- Expose the crat and art of blacksmithing though demonstrations
- Serve as a center of information about blacksmithing and blacksmiths for architects, interior designers, other interested groups, and the general public.
The NYSDB Organization is currently set up with several regions throughout the state that meet monthly. Regular regional monthly meetings are open to all with curiosity. Any interested individuals may visit two regional monthly meetings for free. Specific regional meeting information is available here – check it out for the latest information and events.
We offer hands on practice time at every meeting for members. Unfortunately due to insurance concerns only members may participate but everyone is welcome to observe! Usually one of the first projects you will do is a hook. Wall hooks incorporate most of the fundamental black- smithing skills you will need. Hooks require you to: taper or draw down the stock; scroll or bend the stock; twisting is optional but fun; hot punch a hole for mounting; start to develop an eye for straightening.