Felix Nelson, a 23-year-old blacksmith from Bridgnorth, Shropshire, is concerned about the future of his craft as fewer people invest in handmade, British-made steelwork.
Running his forge for the past five years, Nelson said that this year has been his most challenging Christmas season yet.
Storm Darragh, which swept across the UK, led to widespread cancellations of Christmas markets and fairs, traditionally a vital source of income for local artisans like Nelson.
“Christmas is usually a booming trade for us, but this December has been tricky,” he explained. “We’ve lost four figures due to the cancellations, and as Christmas approaches, it gets tougher and tougher.”
Nelson, who trained in Hereford before setting up his forge at the age of 18, crafts a variety of items ranging from traditional fire pokers and horseshoes to elaborate sculptures and intricate flowers.
Despite the intricate craftsmanship involved, he says people are increasingly opting for cheap, imported alternatives available online.
“The appreciation for handmade gifts isn’t as strong as it used to be,” Nelson said. “People are struggling financially, and that doesn’t help. It’s cheaper to buy things online, and people are more likely to do that than support local businesses.”
The rise of online retail giants has meant a shift in consumer habits. “We’ve become immune to buying things on eBay and other websites when we should be supporting British-made quality steelwork,” Nelson added.
His concern reflects a broader issue facing traditional trades as people increasingly turn to mass-produced, overseas products. In his forge, Nelson works tirelessly to create one-of-a-kind pieces, but the financial stability of his business remains uncertain.
“I’d like to be doing this for the rest of my life, but is it financially stable? Definitely not,” he admitted. “Every year, we lose blacksmiths who go bust because they can’t make a living. It’s worrying.”
While many local artisans depend on the festive season for steady sales, the rise of online shopping and the financial pressures faced by consumers have made it harder for blacksmiths like Nelson to thrive.
Local craft markets, which once guaranteed business during the holidays, have become less reliable as people seek cheaper options online.
The decline in demand for handcrafted items has put Nelson’s business under strain. Despite the challenges, he remains dedicated to his craft and continues to take on commissions for custom sculptures and unique designs.
His forge, filled with the sound of hammers and the glow of red-hot metal, stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional craftsmanship, but Nelson worries that fewer people appreciate the value of such work.
Blacksmithing, a centuries-old skill, is slowly disappearing as fewer customers seek out handmade metalwork. Nelson’s struggle to maintain his livelihood highlights the broader challenges faced by artisans across the UK.
While many continue to battle against the tide of cheap imports and shifting consumer habits, the future of blacksmithing remains uncertain, and Nelson fears that the trade could soon vanish altogether.
“Without the support of local communities, we won’t survive,” he said. “I worry about the future of this craft if things don’t change.”
