I never thought I’d become a craftsman. As a child, I had a hard time deciding between an architect, a rockstar and a sword-wielding knight. Crafting things with my own hands didn’t feel as exciting back then. But as it turns out, life had a different thing in store!
I was raised in a small village, hidden among the woods of East Europe, and my foster father was the village blacksmith. I’d watch him work the hot iron and try to replicate his feats by myself. I was careful enough not to cause any unfortunate accidents.
I left home at the age of 14 to pursue further education. I pursued my dream of sword fighting, becoming an instructor by the time I started my University studies. And then life happened. I didn’t finish my studies. Had an accident. Recovered. Met the girl of my dreams. She had to move back to her hometown, I followed. Found myself unemployed in a region with 24% unemployment rate. Desperation grew.
And then I found it: a small workshop, tucked away under piles of junk in the back of an unused garage. I removed (literally) 5 metric tons of junk and made the shop ready for use. I had decided to follow my heart, and pursued my own designs rather than forge historical replicas. I went for fantasy armor and props, highly decorative, with shining brass and etched ornaments. The kind I imagined as a child dreaming of sword-wielding knights. I remembered my architectural inspirations, studied Old Norse knotworks and Islamic arabesque, watched the Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit movies, over and over again. Then set to work with my notebook and pencil.
It’s been a year since I started my own workshop. Every morning, soon as the mists lift, my neighbours wake to a sound of ringing steel. I never thought I’d become a craftsman, but I am more than happy to be one.
More info: Etsy | Deviantart
The Imperial Faceguard And Gorget
Long story short, it had been ordered for a movie that got cancelled later. Such a pity – I was looking forward to making the full suit.
The Imperial Faceguard
“Armored Dragon” Spaulder
I enjoy making these. There’s a repousse drake on top, and brass adornment or etched details, unique for every piece. For this one, I covered the dragon’s skull with miniature brass armour.
“Sleeping Dragon” Spaulder
Here’s a basic version – a detailed repousse dragon’s head with simple brass adornment. Fit for a barbarian king!
Phoenix Armour, Chestplate
Here’s a private commission I’m working on. A phoenix-themed feminine armor suit, including a chest-piece, hips, shoulders and a crown.
Phoenix Armour, Hip
“Royal Black” iPhone Case
I also enjoy making smaller things. These armored cases make a phone nigh-impervious to sword blows. Also ordinary sources of damage, such as pets and furniture.
“Milan” iPhone Case
There’s a camera hole at the center of the rosetta.
“Audentia” iPhone Case
That’s the one I use!
“The Sefer” iPhone Case
Kabbalah-themed, quite gothy.
Elven Crown
Just a simple elven-style crown made of steel. Every piece is mirror polished, making it really shiny!
Another Dragon Spaulder
The drake’s on the bottom plate this time.
Katana
Here’s a minor side project. My girlfriend needed a sword for a photoshoot.
Katana
Detailing
Here’s an example of my detailing. By the way, it’s Katarina’s dagger from League of Legends.
My Workshop
Here’s a look at my table. I had discovered these huge mirrors under all the junk and decided I wouldn’t throw them away. They add so much light to the workspace.
Workshop Helper
He’s all excited whenever I go outside to take photos. It’s nigh-impossible to keep him away from laying all over the white sheets.
Personal Reviewer
The kitty comes to examine every piece I bring home. She’s especially fond of the shiny ones. Oh, and she considers sword points perfect toys.
Examination
I guess it’s been approved for use.
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