Peeter Reemann

Rõuge Sepp

Blacksmith

©Marge Teder

Explores how far steel can bend

Peeter creates age old tools for modern builders
He has a passion for traditional handmade axes
He is a visiting teacher at the University of Tartu

Peeter Reemann proudly carries out one of the oldest professions in the world and upholds hundreds – if not thousands – of years of old smithing techniques in his forge, which he transformed from an old stable next to his home. Peeter is known worldwide for creating tools for log house builders, especially axes. He forge welds blades for beautiful hand axes. He has learned and adapted his traditional training after visiting other countries such as Austria, France, Hungary and Norway, under different master's guidance – one of the most influential masters was Halle Groeling. But the person who opened the world of tools for Peeter was a Norwegian log house expert called George Fuller.

Interview

©Marge Teder

©Marge Teder

What makes your occupation unique?: It is one of the oldest occupations in the world that still exists. Creating anything out of steel requires good hand and eye work. To create and express this work fully one needs to be able to draw and perceive things three-dimensionally in your mind.
What was your first object as a blacksmith?: During my studies in Leningrad, there was a blacksmith who taught me how to create a rose out of steel. I gave it as a gift to my girlfriend at the time, I think it would be fun to see the work now, but I don't think it would be anywhere near my current standards.
How do you mix tradition and innovation?: For example, axes today can be illustrated with laser engraving techniques that could not be done in earlier days and were only done by hand at the time. But some of the illustrations are still traditional like texts in rune letters to give an additional value or meaning to the tool.
Do you have any secrets in the world of blacksmiths?: Being a blacksmith is a very old and dignified profession. The most commonly used family names across the world are "Smith.” Back in the early days, one could occupy such a name only after one's occupation as a blacksmith or any other smith.

Peeter Reemann is a master artisan: he began his career in 1990 and he started teaching in 1998