The Workshop
The workshop on Tudor yard in Ledbury, Herefordshire, is where it all happens. It is not the largest space but it's enough to squeeze even the largest driveway gates commission in. Coming from an artistic background and trained in both the traditional form of blacksmithing and the more modern side of metalworking, the workshop is kitted out to take advantage of all three disciplines.
Unlike other traditional forges that are usually dark for the reason of seeing different temperature changes in the metal as it heats and cools, the McRae workshop is painted all white with very bright lighting, as firstly being an artist light is more important to McRae than any other consideration. After that everything is equal. Both traditional, modern, and old variations of machines and tools are used, as each exploit uniquely different properties in the metal being worked. Hence McRae would never label their work as either art, blacksmithing, fabrication or contemporary. All disciplines are exploited for a common goal.
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It is lovely to have machines and tools that are over a hundred years old and as useful and as well used as their modern counterparts. That said, it is also great when a modern machine needs a new part and the part can be purchased simply and quickly unlike with the older machines. These can often need parts made in-house that can take days (sometimes weeks) to get right.
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It is truly inspiring to work using techniques unchanged for millennia, using surfaces/tools that have seen many a blacksmith/artist/craftsman, making, mending, and creating. But to also strive to use these techniques and apply them in a modern setting that is our surroundings today.
By you enjoying and maybe buying even the smallest item that comes from this workshop, we are not just making a purchase, we are all becoming part of the history of each hand tool, machine and hammer blow that has gone into not just making that unique item but hundreds of other unique items before by other craftspeople.
It is that history, provenance and drive to reflect individuality for everyone that makes a “McRae” design. |