Products & Offerings
Blacksmithing
Encompasses the design, production, or reproduction of any forged item, blacksmiths can make anything from hardware, bracketry, gates, tools, railing, decorative items, cooking utensils, sculptures, furniture, and more.
Restoration
The defining principle of restoring for blacksmiths working with a historic piece of ironwork is that it should be restored in the manner in which it was made. In the 21st century, there are a handful of blacksmiths who have had the opportunity and the volition to study the traditional methods of forging and blacksmithing to be able to execute said pieces with the necessary skill while also adhering to the defining principles of the craft. Matt Garton of Sparkes & Co. has invested all of his adult working life in learning and continuing to master the age-old traditions of blacksmithing, which plays a fundamental roll in restoring any piece of original ironwork. Restoration projects are considered on a case-by-case basis after a consultation.
Design Work
With the length and breadth of experience and projects undertaken both in his own practice and for other significant metal working companies around the world, Matt offers an encyclopedic knowledge of architectural metal and blacksmithing. His studies in England and experiences as a journeyman blacksmith speak to his broad knowledge of both contemporary and traditional metalwork. Well designed and well-made architectural ironwork is the jewel in the architectural crown of most major cities in the world.
Private Tuition
During Matt’s training, a great deal of importance was put on the idea that the knowledge that you gain is not something that belongs to you. It’s something that you look after and you should take every opportunity that you can to share what you know with people who are eager to learn. Matt continues to uphold this teaching philosophy with his blacksmithing students at the American College of the Building Arts today. With this in mind, if someone has an interest in a particular portion of the craft of blacksmithing, individuals will be considered on a case-by-case basis for private tuition or instruction on a specific subject.
Have a project in mind?
We’ll prepare a proposal and walk you through every step of the process.