About me

Welcome to Alder Hardt Ironworks, where the journey of forging meets a lifelong passion for craftsmanship. My name is Alder a 18 year-old blacksmith from wolcott VT, and I am the artisan behind each hand-forged creation that leaves my workshop.

My fascination with blacksmithing ignited at the tender age of eight, as I stood captivated by the rhythmic dance of a blacksmith's hammer at the Shelburne Museum in Shelburne, VT. The sparks, the fire, the heat, and the resonating clang of metal on metal left an indelible mark on my young mind, filling it with wonder and excitement. It was during that mesmerizing experience that the blacksmith recognized my budding interest and gifted my mother and me a key ring and a hook – tokens of the craft that sparked a passion within me.

Fast forward to my twelve-year-old self, homeschooled during my sixth-grade year, and the freedom to explore my interests fully. Experimenting with my newfound passion, I had made a few knives out of some old saw blades and I needed a way to harden them, leading to the creation of a rudimentary in-ground forge. Despite the disappointment of melting my initial creations, the experience was nothing short of incredible. The searing heat and the transformative power of the forge fueled my determination. I seized the opportunity, grabbing a piece of scrap steel, heating it in my makeshift forge, and discovering the magic of shaping metal with just a hammer and the back of a vice.

In the years that followed, my journey in blacksmithing evolved. I delved deeper into the craft, refining my tools, expanding my knowledge, and nurturing an unwavering love for the art of forging. Every piece of ironwork that leaves Alder Hardt Ironworks is a testament to the care, precision, and passion that goes into its creation. When you choose our hand-forged items, you're not just acquiring a functional or decorative piece – you're welcoming a piece of craftsmanship that has been honed over years of dedication and love for the craft.

When you purchase ironwork from me, you will know that each item has been crafted with care, precision, and passion.