About Me

Mark Teece is The British Blacksmith.  I came to America about 25 years ago from Britain and I am an artist blacksmith. I use traditional blacksmithing methods as well as modern techniques to form unique pieces of functional art. My original forge was called Westshore Forge in case you knew me then!

anvil with union jack logo
blacksmith leaning on anvil
Mark the blacksmith

I have taught a wide range of subjects for more than 25 years as a teacher, college professor, and artist. I thoroughly enjoy teaching blacksmithing to new and experienced people of all ages. It is exciting to see the look on someones face when the metal moves in different ways and the ease with which you can transform something some hard and lifeless into beautiful shapes.

I teach small classes where you will get individual attention and be able to forge your own items. From simple hooks to complicated multi-piece forgings, I am happy to help you get to your dream projects. My introductory courses are three hours long and it’s all about having a good time and making something to take home and show your family and friends.

I like to use recycled or surplus steel in my work. Follow me on Instagram for recent updates or click on the “Updates” tab above.

blacksmiths working at vice
Teaching others

 I learned a great deal from classes with Paul Garrett, Bob Alexander, and Chris Winterstein at the John C. Campbell Folk School. I took some short classes with Mark Aspery and Gerald Boggs and learned some great techniques. I worked with Haley Woodward and Pat Quinn at the Center for Metal Arts learning about making hammers and using power hammers. Smiths from New York State including Candace Martens from Rochester RocAFC and Steve Ruger have also taught me a lot. Most of my work uses traditional joinery techniques including rivets, collars, and forge welding.  If the project needs it, I do use MIG or oxyacetylene welding or brazing.

I am a proud member of the New York State Designer Blacksmiths (NYSDB), the Artist-Blacksmith’s Association of North America (ABANA) and the British Artist Blacksmiths Association (BABA).

Thanks for stopping by and please let me know if you would like me to forge you something special for your home. Or if you would like to take a class and learn how to forge red hot steel.

Mark

Contact Me

If you have any questions please email me at mark@thebritishblacksmith.com