Farrier

As a blacksmith you are a smith with a very special focus: horseshoes and fittings. You work in metal and forge among other things shoes for horses so they can walk safely and without pain. It is a niche craft where you must understand both your metalworking and the animals you work for.

Much of the work is about shoeing horses. You assess the horse's hooves and movement, forge and fit horseshoes and put them on. You work with fire, anvil, and hammer in the classical way, but also with modern tools. Much of the work is done at horse owners' places, in stables and riding schools, so you get around and meet many different people and animals.

• 01You learn the classic blacksmith craft with fire, anvil, and hammer.
• 02You become good at shoeing and adjusting horseshoes for the individual horse.
• 03You learn to assess hooves and movement so the horse can move well.
• 04You work closely with animals and people and go to many different places.
• 05You get a specialized craft where you can really become an expert.

Farrier is a craft profession where you learn through a mix of teaching and training with an experienced farrier. You build your skills over time both at the anvil and in the field working with animals. Patience and a good hand with both metal and horses are major assets.

As a fully trained horseshoe smith you can work independently and build a regular circle of customers among horse owners riding schools and studs. If you become skilled and known for quality the demand for your work can come from far away.

“A good farrier ensures the horse can stand safely on all four.”