Koolman Forge

Koolman Forge, based on southern Vancouver Island, opened for business in early 2016. We produce forged metal work, both for our expanding range of products as well as unique custom designed projects. Working primarily in mild steel, we also use copper, bronze, brass, and aluminum. The founder of Koolman Forge, Jake Koolman is an artist blacksmith trained in the UK. He has returned home to start his own business after working abroad. Smithing or forging is the process of heating metal, often steel, and forming it to the desired shape. Our products are mostly worked with hand hammers and tools over the anvil. Some larger pieces are forged using pneumatic or hydraulic versions of the hand tools, but there is no automation in our workshop. Our making relies on the skills of the smith, their training, knowledge and concentration. Traditional techniques and time honored knowledge form the foundation of our process, which we then apply to contemporary designs. This, coupled with some of the most hard wearing and versitile materials available, allow us to create beautiful and long lasting pieces for you to enjoy