North House Folk School

Robert has been blacksmithing since 1996, focusing on the techniques of traditional joinery and knifemaking.  He is a student of many great smiths including Bill Fiorini, Tom Latane, Peter Ross, Clay Spencer, and specifically with blade smithing, he learned traditional ways under legends Chuck Patrick and Jim Batson.  Robert teaches at various craft schools in the U.S. including North House, John C. Campbell Folk School, and his own New Traditions Homestead.   Along with blacksmithing, Robert and his family are homesteading their off-the-grid SW Wisconsin land, practicing natural building techniques, draft horsepower, alternative energy, and organic agriculture.