About C.Payne Blacksmith
Taught and guided by Hector Cole FWCB MBE. Craig was awarded the certificate of Merit by the Worshipful Company Of Blacksmiths in 2017.
In 2013, after 15 years in engineering, my work began to feel routine. Though a skilled engineer, I found myself merely following customer drawings. With a background in art and design, holding A-levels and NVQs in the field, I had once aspired to a career in graphic design but instead pursued engineering. While I enjoyed it initially, I soon longed for a more creative outlet.
A family friend, Hector Cole, a respected Malmesbury school teacher turned blacksmith, offered lessons in his forge. I decided to combine my artistic skills with my knowledge of metalwork. Upon entering Hector’s forge, he warned me, “Be careful, blacksmithing is contagious!”—and he was right; I was instantly captivated.
The scent of coal and hot metal, accompanied by the clamor of tools and a shower of sparks, awakened the senses. From such a common, sturdy material, something beautiful could be crafted. I take pride in designing and creating pieces for customers using traditional blacksmithing methods, avoiding machining or electric welding. Witnessing the joy on a customer’s face upon receiving a finished piece makes the effort profoundly rewarding.
Designing hand forged bespoke ironwork including:
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At times, I must explain to customers that the ‘traditional’ wrought iron gate they purchased elsewhere is not as authentic as they believed, having been hastily produced in a factory without craftsmanship or care. The components were ordered from a catalogue and made of mild steel rather than wrought iron. Once I highlight the flat ends in the scrolls’ centers and the clear signs of electric welding, disappointment often follows. Such mass-produced items are now common due to their low cost and ease of manufacture. For truly traditional, bespoke, hand-crafted work, one should consult a blacksmith.
My most frequent commissions are handrails and bannister rails, though one of my most enjoyable projects was forging a knight’s sword for my best friend’s wedding cake-cutting ceremony. Expecting he would want a scaled-down version, I was surprised when he requested a full-sized, sharpened blade. I hand-forged a thirty-inch knight’s sword, which was met with great enthusiasm. Thankfully, the event passed without incident, and the sword was safely stored after its ceremonial use.
Blacksmithing is my passion as well as my profession, and I strive to inspire and educate others about the true artistry of the craft.
