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About Raven Forge Fabrications

Where heritage meets innovation

At Raven Forge, we blend our creative vision with traditional and modern techniques to deliver work of exceptional design and craftsmanship. Our goal is to provide clients with a diverse selection of wrought iron techniques and styles, ensuring every piece stands as a unique work of art.

Alongside our extensive collection, we offer a bespoke in-house design service, inviting clients to collaborate directly with our craftsmen to bring custom ideas to life. Beyond new commissions, we specialize in the restoration and faithful replication of historic wrought ironwork, from Victorian-era designs to the ornate railings that grace churches and public buildings.

Meet the Makers

Rick De Boutemard

Blacksmith and entrepreneur, began his career in engineering as a motorcycle mechanic before training in coded welding and fabrication. His work led him to meet Jim Cooper, sparking a passion for hot forging and inspiring him to establish a business built on creativity, craftsmanship, and design excellence. Under Rick’s vision, Raven Forge has earned long-standing partnerships with Local Authorities, English Heritage, and major corporate clients, while also thriving on private commissions driven by referrals and repeat business.

Rick also maintains an ongoing passion for competitive motocross racing, currently sponsoring Max Lofty in the No Limits Pirelli Superseries 1000, as he progresses into the British Superstock Championship. He also supports rider Jorge Halliday, creating custom artwork and sculptural pieces for both Max and Jorge, blending his artistic expertise with his enthusiasm for the sport.

View some of our custom motorcross pieces.

Jim Cooper

Master Blacksmith, refined his skills through BABA and went on to win gold, silver, and the prestigious Bronze Medal from the Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths. His eclectic style blends traditional forging techniques with modern tools like the power hammer and plasma cutter, often adding touches of humour and personalization to his work. Jim’s artistry and dedication to understanding his clients bring individuality and character to every project he creates.

Happy customers

“Valley Heritage are a building preservation trust (charity) based in Rossendale, with the aim of finding new uses for at risk heritage assets in the Valley.

When Valley Heritage acquired the former Lancashire and Yorkshire Bank in Bacup, we wanted to include bespoke and community inspired artwork to lift and enhance the refurbishment. Using designs based on input from local schools and scouts, enhanced and tweaked by a local artist, Rick and his team were able to take the designs and create beautiful, unique and robust railings along the external walkway of the bank. And we couldn’t be happier with how they have turned out and how they have held up to local wear and tear”

Valley HeritageBespoke railings

“Proffitts have worked with Raven Forge for years on several projects throughout Lancashire, Greater Manchester and Cheshire. Their team never fail to provide beautiful and well manufactured railings, gates and other metalwork, using their own designs or working alongside artists and the community. We would not hesitate to recommend them and look forward to working with them again.”

Rachael GildertLandscape Architect, Proffitts

“From the very first contact with Raven Forge, to the completion of our beautiful railings and gate, the service has been top class. After contacting Rick, with an idea of a statement gate, he took my vision and worked tirelessly to bring his creation to life. We were contacted at all stages of the process and given insights into the development of our railings/gate. We were fully included in the whole process which made us even more excited to see the finished installation. The final pieces are the highest level of craftsmanship and engineering. We are delighted
with the railings/gate and feel so proud to have them in our garden. In an age of cheap reproductions and disposable/short life products, it’s a privilege to work with a company who have created a legacy piece and are such masters of their trade!”

Joni StaffordStafford & Co