206-235-3246 By appointment only Ballard Forge is an independent metalsmithing studio owned and operated by Steve Howell in Seattle's historic Ballard neighborhood. The Studio produces ironwork of the highest quality for the discerning home and business owner. Riveted Structural Steel Historic Bridg...

Did you know that the speed of sound in steel is 3.6 MILES per second?! Armed with this knowledge and the laws of optics, sound or ultrasound can determine many unknown variables in metal, concrete, wood or composite structures. The primary use of ultrasound in metals inspection is for flaw detectio...

Steel stairs offer certain benefits over wood that can fit the modernist design ethos; less mass, open risers and longer unsupported spans are but a few. Riveted steel stairs In construction One piece stair and rail Riveted stairs Another one piece stringer and rail Ships ladder for a condo loft Pul...

Every 21st century blacksmith should have the knowledge it takes to make his, or her own hammers, tongs, etc. In the meantime, these items below are available in a variety of materials including A588 Cor-Ten, 4140, 8630, 5160 and of course, mild steel. Basic tong starter sets (1/4 - 3/4" + pickups) ...

I've been inspired by the arts and crafts designers of Greene and Greene, the Stickley brothers and Charles Rennie Mackintosh who, among others favored simple hand-made items that eschewed ornament. It's in this spirit that I've created some of these pieces. Utilizing exposed joinery such as mortise...