Journeymanship: Some issues for consideration
BABA has developed this information as a resource to serve as guidance for anyone contemplating this route of education.
A Journeymanship in blacksmithing is a self-directed learning experience. It offers real and lasting benefits to the participant. In the United Kingdom there are no formalities or qualifications needed to become a journeyman. The training involves traveling around to different workshops to learn skills and gain experience.
Guidelines for your consideration:
- Journeymen/journeywomen should have good general metal working skills and an understanding of the trade.
- A CV and portfolio should be used to provide evidence of your experience.
- There are various types of blacksmith work, what area are you wanting to explore?
- Research the work of the blacksmith you wish to work for, to check the suitability of the placement.
Responsiblity
Be aware that you are entirely responsible for yourself when making contact with a potential employer. Please consider the following:
- Give a friendly introduction as to who you are.
- Explain why you are making contact. Give clear reasons as to why you want to work for this particular artist, craftsperson, company.
- List your expectations. For example; the duration of work placement, the length of time you would be available, what areas of learning you hope to gain, e.g. craft, business, marketing, artistic process. What accommodation you will need?
- Money should not be the first thing you ask about. It should be clear that your request is for learning and gaining experience and not about earning a lot of money. Ideally, with an agreement for food, accommodation and a possibly a little money, the journeyman should complete the placement without losing money and perhaps have enough to travel further to the next workshop. This will not always be the case. If a work placement develops into a longer-term arrangement and both sides are happy with this, then it is legitimate to discuss more favourable financial terms.
- Bear in mind that potential employers are frequently busy, so it is possible that you may get no response. Therefore, to make it as easy as possible for the employer, in your first email, call or letter, you should ask if there is a specific date and time when it would be convenient to call to discuss the matter further. This gives the employer time to prepare and time to consider your proposition Even if the response is negative, it may be that other leads are suggested which may result in placements elsewhere. It is always worth asking the question.
One of the best ways to actually meet interesting potential employers is to attend blacksmithing meetings, forge-ins or conferences. There you need to approach these people politely to enquire about the possibility of a placement.
Things To Remember
- A journeyman/woman has a responsibility to uphold positive working relationships. Setting a good example will hopefully keep the doors open to future applicants, allowing others to train.
- Being respectful, professional and using your common sense are highly important. You need to be hard working, enthusiastic and willing to learn. What you get out of the experience depends upon how much you are prepared to put in.
TRAVELLING TO ANOTHER COUNTRY?
Do your research. Finding out about your destination is very important. Investigate factors such as local laws and customs. It’s always useful to learn the basics of the language spoken in the country you’re intending to visit.
- Ensure you have a valid passport and any VISA, ETIAS (European Union) or ESTA (USA) requirements.
- Do you need an international driving licence and insurance policy?
- Do you have travel insurance and are there any medical precautions you will need to take?
- Currency. You can check with your bank regarding any charges for transactions abroad.
- Communications. How will you access theinternet or telephone.
What others have to say about the experience
Here are some "Traveller's Tales"... Articles written by a few smiths who have planned trips to work in forges around the world.
Click on an image to open a PDF
USEFUL LINKS
The Blacksmith's craft transcends boundaries through connecting people to a global craft community. To find out more about being a journeyman/journeywoman you can become a BABA member and make contact with blacksmiths from around the UK and internationally.
These links provide potential funding that could be used to assist you.
British Artist Blacksmith Association - Education Fund
Winston Churchill Memorial Trust
The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust
These links provide contact details for blacksmiths from all over the world.