MAELSTROM FORGE
Hand forged blades and jewelry by Dan Bourlotos
ABOUT ME
My name is Dan Bourlotos. I began bladesmithing and metal working when I got into Dungeons & Dragons, and the Lord of the Rings. As a usual 11 or 12 year old, I wanted to make swords and proceeded to make a fire pit in my backyard and start hammering on steel. It didn't take me long to realize it wasn't merely swingin a sword that I loved, but the craft I loved, and I started making everything from blades to jewelry.
I'm reasonably sure that if it wasn't for my parents being the most understanding people possible I would not have continued smithing through high school and college. I also credit blacksmithing with providing the initial curiosity which lead to me getting a material science and engineering degree in 2012. I am very fortunate to have a hobby and a profession that share many similarities, and frequently use knowledge gained in one part of my life to aid in the other.
Working out of my small shop part time, I make everything by hand and labor to put my best into every piece of work that I produce.
Although I specialize in bladesmithing, I also make tools, and both forged and cast custom jewelry and the occasional sculptural piece.