Hey, what if I became a blacksmith?
Loïc Walter said to himself one day, waking up. With a degree in carpentry, upholstery and decorative sewing, he began working with metal somewhat by chance, as an autodidact. I bought my first anvil for €20 in a DIY store, just to test
he confides. But I quickly invested in more quality equipment.
A revelation
Indeed, following his tests, he very quickly took a liking to the sound of the hammer on the anvil and specialized in cutting (making tools and cutting irons). In 2017, he created the Gueule noire workshop, in La Bouëxière (Ille-et-Vilaine) which allowed him to sell his knives and other tools professionally. Unique pieces and small series have made it successful and renowned in the sector.
Pass on your passion
More than a profession, blacksmithing has become a real passion for this young tailor, and it is to pass it on that he has been offering, for some time now, introductory blacksmithing courses. Aimed at anyone wishing to try or improve their skills in creating knives, these workshops allow you to discover all the techniques. After a day, or two, depending on whether you choose to create a “rough forge” or a knife decorated with a pretty wooden handle, machining, sharpening and polishing will no longer hold any secrets for the trainees.
The courses are open to all, as long as the participants are adults.
specifies Loïc, who does not welcome no more than two trainees at the same time so that everything goes as smoothly as possible
.
And contrary to what one might imagine, no strength or physical fitness requirements are required. And although those registered for the courses are most often men, it is less and less rare to come across women there.
Practical information. To book or offer a course: come and meet Loïc on December 21, 22 and 23, 2024 at the Lutins’ hideout, at Histoires d’Ânes, in La Bouëxière, or contact him via son site Internet : https://www.latelierdelagueulenoire.com
