Frequently Asked Questions
Commissioning a hand-forged piece is a collaborative process between client and blacksmith. To help you understand our approach, we have compiled the most common questions regarding our materials, lead times, and the design process that we use in our Sussex workshop. We are passionate about forged metalwork, relishing the creative opportunities in every commission.
If you have a specific inquiry about a project in London or the South East, please don’t hesitate to contact us at the forge.
What is the commissioning process?
Every project begins with a consultation to discuss your vision and the individual site requirements. We then provide design proposals and where necessary technical drawings, before carefully beginning the hand-forging and fabrication process in our Sussex workshop.
How do I commission a bespoke gate?
Contact us with your approximate opening dimensions and any design preferences. Our extensive back catalog of past commissions is often a good starting point. We handle everything from initial design and material selection to professional installation and automation coordination.
What materials do you work with?
We specialise in forged bronze, stainless steel, and traditional wrought iron. We carefully select materials based on the architectural environment and the desired finish.
How long does it take to make?
Lead times vary depending on the complexity and scale of the commission. Typically, a bespoke project takes between 8 to 14 weeks from design approval to installation.
What’s the difference between a forged gate and a fabricated gate?
Fabricated gates are usually made from standard, off-the-shelf components welded together. A forged gate by contrast is shaped by heat and force, allowing for unique textures, tapered sections, and traditional joinery that cannot be replicated by machinery. Hand-forged gates feature a rich vocabulary of highly skilled techniques, from hot-punched holes to fire welding and mortice and tenoned joints. These artisanal techniques are both hugely strong and rich in detail, all helping to tell the story of how the gate was made.
What finishes do you offer on your bespoke metalwork?
We offer a range of specialist finishes, including hand-applied patinas for bronze, hot-dip galvanising for long-term weather protection, and high-quality architectural powder coatings.
Do you design all the work you make?
Yes. James Price brings a BA (Hons) in Craft Design to every project, as well as over 20 years of designing bespoke metalwork, ensuring that all our work is both structurally exacting and artistically considered.
Do you work with garden designers and interior designers?
Absolutely. We frequently collaborate with leading architects, interior designers, and garden designers across London and the South East to realise bespoke architectural details.
Do you offer an installation service for your architectural metalwork?
Yes, we provide a professional installation service for all our architectural work, including gates, railings, and large-scale sculptures, ensuring a seamless fit and finish.
Why is Galvanising a good idea for bespoke metalwork?
Hot-dip galvanising provides a zinc coating that protects steel from rust for decades. It is essential for exterior work in the UK climate to ensure the longevity of your commission.