Alice Garrett in her workshop
Alice Garrett in her workshop

Garrett Forgeworks is a small design blacksmithing workshop based in Bayswater, in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. It is owned and operated by Alice Garrett.

Tri-line profile tool
Tri-line profile tool
Alice completed a Diploma in Costume Design in 2010, where her final piece was a Samurai Armour. Her interest in metalwork led her to The Barn, the location of the Australian Blacksmiths Association [Victoria]. This is where her love for the Blacksmithing craft began. Alice spent eight years at The Barn, volunteering on the committee, teaching beginners courses, and helping develop and support the Women’s Blacksmithing Group, whilst being mentored by Blacksmith Nick Hackett.

In 2016, Alice went on to study Industrial Blacksmithing at Ultimo TAFE in Sydney. During her studies, Alice travelled to New Orleans, United States and worked with Rachel David and was involved in the foundation of The Society of Inclusive Blacksmiths, an organisation that focuses on championing inclusiveness and diversity within the Blacksmithing world.

After returning to Australia and completing TAFE, Alice also spent time working at Eveleigh Works at the Historic Locomotive Workshop in Redfern, Sydney and Eastern Forge in the Northern Rivers.

In 2022, Alice started her own business. Initially working on some architectural commissions, Alice began her own range of home décor products. Tool making is her main passion. Alice is designing and making her own tools to do production-focused work. Alice predominantly uses open and closed dies in her work. The tri-line profile is a main feature in her products.

Garrett Forgeworks also offers a series of blacksmithing classes for women, trans and non-binary people. These classes provide a safe and supportive learning environment to access a craft that has traditionally been off-limits to many.