Forging the Future

Becoming a blacksmith started as something much simpler for Cameron Fisher.

Nearly 15 years ago, Cameron when to farrier school to further his knowledge on shoeing horses. While his job as a farrier was rewarding in its own right, what he developed over time was a true love for the craft of blacksmithing.

At an event, Cameron met a blacksmith who took the time to explain how and what he does and the two developed a relationship based on the exchange ideas and knowledge. His mentor allowed Cameron to make mistakes (and there were many!) and used them as teaching tools. Under his guidance, Cameron learned the skills needed to craft items in a style that has long been forgotten.

Cameron started Yellow Dog Forge to promote blacksmithing as both a platform to create works for art as well as functional tools. He intends to bring back a craft that was once a vital component of every community.

Cameron says shifting gears from being a farrier and going fully into blacksmithing has been a world of ups and downs, rewards and disappointments, but all of it has challenged Cameron to dig deeper, press forward and continue this journey.

“Knowing that you can take something like a stick of steel and turn it into a decorative candle holder or a ball bearing and form it into a functional hunting knife is about as rewarding as it gets. But then when others appreciate the work and the craft of blacksmithing, it is beyond gratifying,” he explained.

Watch Cameron’s live forging demonstration and shop his decorative and functional iron products when you stop by Yellow Dog Forge at Made in St. Augustine.