Custom Work Policies

The Maine Blacksmith's Guild is a collection of traditional blacksmith shops specializing in custom ironwork. Our work spans a variety of styles, from early Celtic to late 19th Century, inspired by Insular, Colonial, Gothic, Germanic, and Scandinavian sources. We accept all projects, big and small, and guarantee our work to last for a generation.

​

Design & Artistic License

We approach projects in three ways:

1. Collaborative Design: Work with the blacksmith to sketch a custom design.

2. Client Sketches: If you have your own sketch or photos, we’ll help bring your vision to life.

3. Architectural Drawings: We can work with professional drawings and measurements to create exact pieces.

Artistic License is available for clients who prefer flexibility in ornamentation or detail, as long as the item functions as intended. During the design meeting, we'll discuss any artistic license options. Sample photos or small prototypes (taking under an hour to make) are provided at no cost. Prototypes taking longer will incur an additional charge.

​

Scheduling

Due to high demand, the Guild operates on block scheduling. This means a portion of current and future time slots are reserved for previously scheduled work. Small projects requiring less than 5 hours can be scheduled more quickly. Larger projects may experience delays due to material shortages, change orders, or inclement weather, which could extend the finish time.

• A deposit is required to secure your spot on the schedule.

• Estimated finish times and a receipt will be provided within 48 hours of receiving the deposit.

• Wait times vary from 8-45 weeks, depending on the project's size and time of year.

 

Quotes & Payments - Deposits/Milestones/Final Payment

• Quotes are valid for 30 days; after that, a new quote is required.

• A 50% deposit is required for any work exceeding $2,000 to schedule the project.

• The deposit covers initial costs and is non-refundable. If changes are made after the deposit is received, the Guild may keep the deposit to cover losses.

• Change Orders for work over an hour will require an additional deposit.

• Payments for larger projects may be made in milestones, with the remaining balance due upon pickup or delivery.

Final Payments are due upon pickup or delivery, and we will make all reasonable efforts to correct any dissatisfaction with the work.

​

Pricing

• Shop rate: $85/hour + Materials & Delivery

• Rush rate: $135/hour + Materials & Delivery (for work required in 2 weeks or less)

• Travel/Admin time: $85/hour

• On-site forging/welding: $110/hour or $800/day + Materials

• Tutoring Lessons:

  • 2-hour: $189 (non-refundable)

  • 3-hour: $249 + Materials (non-refundable)

  • 4-hour: $289 + Materials (non-refundable)

• Gift Certificates: Non-refundable, no cash value

 

Fees

• Storage Fees: $30/day after 6 business days without communication or pickup.

• Other Fees: Costs related to bounced checks, chargebacks, bank fees, or additional administrative costs are the customer’s responsibility and must be paid immediately. Charges will be made to the card on file if applicable.