In a world where convenience often outweighs craftsmanship, Wasatch Forge stands as a beacon for those aspiring to embrace the art of blacksmithing. Founded by Matt Danielson, this unique workshop offers aspiring smiths the chance to create utilitarian items from raw steel while cultivating hands-on skills that many believe are slowly fading.
Danielson’s journey into blacksmithing began in a rather unconventional manner. Years ago, while waiting for steel to be cut at Wasatch Steel, he stumbled across a product catalog featuring hand-forged garage lamps. Intrigued by the potential demand for handcrafted items, he felt a renewed sense of purpose in his craft.
Growing up, Danielson had always been passionate about creating. “I’ve been geeky my whole life,” he recalls. But it was when he was just 14 years old that he embarked on a path of forging, initially using a solid steel hitch as an anvil and a firewood stove as a forge in his father’s garage. His early attempts at blacksmithing were fraught with challenges, largely due to the lack of resources and available learning opportunities at the time.
“…there were no instructors back then, there were no opportunities that I could find to learn,” he remarked about his formative years in smithing.
Eventually, Danielson’s fortunes shifted when a friend introduced him to a blacksmith at This is the Place Monument. During his two seasons of apprenticeship, he learned the ropes of engaging with visitors and practicing the art of “show-blacksmithing.” When the crowds would thin, he received invaluable insights into the foundational principles of blacksmithing.
His professional foray began with forging garden art for local shops, but the venture did not yield immediate success. Faced with financial pressures, Danielson put his blacksmithing aspirations on hold, opting instead for a more stable job as a steel warehouse worker. Yet, even during this time, he never completely severed ties with the craft, meeting fellow blacksmiths who reignited his passion.
A serendipitous encounter with a customer in need of hand-forged cookware reignited Danielson’s dedication to blacksmithing. The success of this project opened new avenues for him, eventually leading to a collaboration with three other smiths in a rented workspace. However, as those partnerships dwindled, Danielson decided to take a bold step forward, embracing his passion despite the odds.
“Humans are designed by our hands to have to wield tools,” Danielson explained passionately. This passion drove him to not only continue his work but to expand it. With the retreat of his partners, Danielson faced a pivotal moment where he could either shut down or push forward. He chose the latter, committing himself fully to the renovation of Wasatch Forge.
Recognizing the increased interest in blacksmithing, particularly following the popularity of reality shows like Forged in Fire, Danielson transitioned Wasatch Forge into a teaching facility. Partnering with Mike Imperiale, they began offering classes on blacksmithing. “So we built a rough curriculum, and that’s where Wasatch Forge took a turn,” Danielson mentioned proudly.
Now, over a decade later, Wasatch Forge has transformed into a renowned trade school, with an impressive 80% of its operations dedicated to teaching. Danielson believes this evolution reflects a growing appreciation for the art and craft of metalworking.
“I’m very thankful for Forged in Fire to get people to know that this stuff exists,” he said, recognizing the show’s role in promoting blacksmithing to a broader audience. As classes gained traction, Danielson found motivation not only in teaching but also in witnessing his students’ enthusiasm for learning and creating.
One of the most gratifying aspects of teaching, he notes, is seeing students build their own tools. “If they can build a hammer, then there’s no way they take home and leave it in a drawer. They’re going to have to build something with it, and that’s what keeps me going,” Danielson explained.
Personal testimonials from students highlight this sentiment. Many express the joy and fulfillment they experience when crafting their first pieces, such as handcrafted bottle openers or knives, which often carry deeper significance than store-bought items due to the labor and learning involved. The immersive experience at Wasatch Forge not only fosters a sense of accomplishment but also strengthens the connection between the maker and their creation.
Danielson himself finds immense satisfaction in the tangible results of his added effort, solidifying Wasatch Forge’s role as not just a workshop, but a community space where traditional craftsmanship thrives.
As Wasatch Forge continues to evolve and adapt to the demands of a new generation eager to learn the metalworking craft, Matt Danielson remains steadfast in his mission to share and inspire. For anyone curious about stepping into this unique world of blacksmithing, Wasatch Forge offers classes that promise not just a lesson in metal, but an invitation to connect with the fundamental human experience of creation.
Interested parties can explore the full range of class offerings at Wasatch Forge by visiting wasatchforge.com, where they can join in on the revival of a tactile craft that emphasizes skill, creativity, and community.
image source from：slugmag
