Today we’d like to introduce you to James Stough.
Hi James, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Back in college, I was curious about forging and what blacksmiths do, so I did some online research. I thought it would be fun to give it a try and make some knives. I started messing around in my back yard with a blow torch. I made a few knife shaped objects, they could cut things but not the greatest works. Eventually, I was gifted a proper forge to replace the blow torch I used. I also sourced an anvil to use to try and make some things. I moved on from knives and tried making more practical, useful pieces. That was my hobby for a while. I was working in marketing at the time and the company I worked for laid off the marketing department. I decided it was time to take the leap, and go for the blacksmithing thing full time. It’s now my own business and I’m always working to improve it.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Ha! A smooth road it has not been.
I’m also a full time stay at home dad and a lot of the time that’s a greater responsibility. They also get me sick all the time and being blasted by the heat of the forge while sick is one of the most miserable experiences.
Also, about 2 years ago my business was really starting to pick up and I was looking into getting into festivals and it was really exciting. Then my father in law almost died; aortic dissection. I closed down my business to help take care of him on his road to recovery. Not something I regret at all and we are blessed to have him here and healthy once more. However, it’s taken over a year to get any momentum back into my business.
I also constantly struggle with my ADHD and actually getting things done so there is always that.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Specifically I’m a blacksmith and I specialize in making decorative pieces. I mostly make hooks; like coat hooks, pot hooks, and wreath hooks. All with their own decorative twists to them. I have made some more elaborate one off pieces that I’m really proud of. I’ve also had a few people reach out to me to make totally unique things. I think I’m most proud of a coat rack that looked like a viking long ship. I think what sets me apart is I can make items that look handmade without looking poorly made.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
My job is like any other job, except my work is on fire. My workplace is on fire. I’m on fire. Everything is fine.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://beardedblacksmithga.etsy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/james_the_bearded_blacksmith/
