Building a DIY Backyard Forge: The Perfect Blacksmith Shop Setup

Stephen M., a blacksmithing enthusiast living in rural Utah, wanted a space that could handle the intense heat of a coal forge, offer durability in any weather, and be safe to build right in his backyard. He found the solution in a 12’ x 12’ S-Model Quonset hut, which now serves as his personal forge.

Steel seemed the way to go because being all metal, it would be very heat and fire-resistant. I wouldn’t have to worry about catching things on fire like with a wood-framed building.

6 Tips for Building Your Own Home Blacksmith Shop

Whether you’re looking to create a small backyard blacksmith space or a fully outfitted building, here’s how to get started:

1. Choose a Safe, Fire-Resistant Structure

Look for an all-metal building that can handle the heat and doesn’t require interior finishings. Building materials all have fire ratings from 1 to 5. For a forge, you should choose either a Type 1 (fire-resistive) or Type 2 (non-combustible) structure.

2. Aim For Small But Mighty

A smaller space, like a 12’ x 12’,  is ideal for a beginner or hobbyist blacksmith. It’s big enough to hold your coal forge, anvil, tools, and workbench without overwhelming your yard. If you might want to expand in the future, look into expandable or modular options.

3. Create Dedicated Forge & Workspaces

Design your floor plan to place the forge fire on the back wall. This allows you to connect the ventilation required to vent the smoke and keeps it out of the way. For the rest of the shop, establish dedicated crafting zones by strategically positioning workbenches and organizing tools to create an efficient workflow that maximizes productivity while minimizing unnecessary movement.

4. Ventilation Design Is Key

When working with a forge, proper airflow is essential. Plan for windows, doors, vents, or exhaust systems to keep your space safe and comfortable. Stephen opted for a large rolling canister door on his front endwall to allow air to circulate through his building.

5. Build It to Last

Think long-term. A steel blacksmith shed isn’t just a weekend project, it’s a workshop that can withstand disaster-level storms and last for decades. Avoid low-quality and weak tensile strength metal buildings and opt for corrugated, low-gauge quality steel.

6. Build It Yourself

Aside from the concrete slab that any building would require, try to find a building that can be built with a small group of people. In this case, Stephen’s grandson and brother-in-law helped him assemble his Quonset hut building in only a week and a half. Assembling your structure without hiring a crew saves on construction costs that can be reinvested into the building or forge equipment.

I’ve seen [Quonset huts] around before. I just know they’re extremely sturdy once they’re erected. They’re just bulletproof. I thought I might as well build something to last.

Why a Quonset Hut Works

I’ve started some forging projects in there, it works great. Definitely just what I needed. I would highly recommend SteelMaster. I think you guys do a great job.

If you’re planning to build a forge shed or forging shop, consider these benefits of choosing a steel Quonset hut:

• Fire Resistance: Safety comes first. Steel doesn’t burn; it’s Type 2 fire resistant, making it a safer option for high-temperature blacksmithing compared to wood-framed buildings.
• DIY-Friendly: Many Quonset huts can be assembled by two people with basic tools, making them perfect for novice builders.
• Rural-Ready: These buildings can be shipped to remote areas and assembled on-site, which is ideal for blacksmiths living off the beaten path.
• Durability: Once erected, they’re tough. As Stephen puts it, “They’re just bulletproof.”
• Expandable: If you end up outgrowing your space, Quonset huts can be lengthened by two-foot increments, turning your 12×12 into a 20×12.

Whether you’re an experienced blacksmith or just getting started, building a DIY forge in your backyard opens up a whole new world of creativity and craftsmanship. With a fire-resistant, durable structure like a Quonset hut, your home blacksmith shop can be safe, efficient, and entirely your own.