My journey has existed between two worlds — technology and craftsmanship.
I’m educated as a business IT specialist and have spent most of my life working in the field of information technology. That’s where my skills in understanding systems, diving deep, analyzing, and seeking out the reasons why things work the way they do come from. I carry those skills with me into the work I do today — which is much more tangible, but no less meaningful.
Blacksmithing is more than just a job for me — it’s a passion and a way of life.
There have been blacksmiths in my family for at least four generations, so it has surrounded me since childhood. I made my first forged piece when I was nine years old. That feeling stayed with me and matured over the years. I picked it up again in 2011 during a short course with Mart Salumaa. In 2019, I finally decided to turn toward it fully and enrolled in the blacksmithing program at Vana-Vigala Technical School. Two years later, I graduated and received a level four professional certificate.
Today, my workshop is located in the Põhjala Factory.
It’s taken four years to bring it into its current form — both in terms of workflow and equipment. Most of the machines I’ve built myself, or I’ve modified existing ones to suit my needs. I like it when a tool has its own character, its own story. The world of steampunk speaks to me as well, especially when it comes to machine-building — I like it when a machine isn’t just practical but also aesthetic, clever, and unique. My IT background has brought microcontroller control and, of course, touchscreens into many of my tools.
I have a special love for patterned steel — what many know as Damascus steel.
It’s a material that demands precision, intuition, and patience to create, but every time the pattern reveals itself, the moment is worth it. No two pieces are ever the same — and that’s exactly what makes it so special.
In addition to working with metal, I’m currently studying leatherwork in Kuressaare.
And I’m also picking up some woodworking, because I believe a true craftsman doesn’t limit themselves to one material. Metal, wood, and leather together make it possible to create something whole — strong, beautiful, and unique.
I like to investigate, to know where something comes from, how it works, and why.
My background in IT analysis has helped me a lot in how I structure and interpret knowledge. And even more — I enjoy passing that knowledge on. I hold workshops, I teach, and I gladly share my experience. It’s always a joy for me when someone walks away with a new skill in their hands and the realization that “I can do this.” That’s a damn good feeling.
My work isn’t just work. It’s a way of life.
It’s the desire to make something that lasts, that has meaning, and speaks for itself. Every piece, every pattern, every tool is part of a greater whole. And honestly, I don’t consider myself a full blacksmith yet — I’m still a student, and probably always will be.
If you’ve found your way to this page — to Hephaistos Laboratory — and what I do speaks to you, then you’re already part of this story. Welcome.