Eldad Kaganov

With a lifelong passion for metalwork, Eldad began blacksmithing at the age of 14 and has since built a full-time career rooted in craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation. What started as a young curiosity quickly turned into a disciplined pursuit: countless hours at the anvil, studying the behavior of steel, and learning firsthand how heat, hammer, and intent come together to shape metal.

Expertise

A former student of the prestigious Uri Hofi School of Blacksmithing—where he completed an intensive work-study program—Eldad gained a deep command of both classical European technique and modern forging methodology. The Hofi system, known for its focus on efficiency, ergonomics, and controlled hammerwork, shaped the way he approaches every project: with precision, purpose, and respect for the craft’s physical demands.

As an ABANA-certified blacksmith, Eldad specializes in ornamental and architectural ironwork, producing pieces that marry artistic expression with structural integrity. His portfolio spans everything from functional hardware to large-scale forged installations, each one reflecting his eye for detail and commitment to long-lasting craftsmanship. His professional journey also includes serving as a working blacksmith at several museums, where he demonstrated historical forging techniques, maintained period-accurate tools, and helped preserve the legacy of traditional smithing for the public. These roles strengthened his belief that blacksmithing is not only a trade but a living thread of cultural history.

Classes

Today, he channels more than a decade of hands-on experience into teaching. His instruction emphasizes strong foundational skills, efficient technique, creative problem-solving, and a respect for the enduring art of the forge. Whether working with beginners swinging a hammer for the first time or experienced smiths refining advanced methods, Eldad strives to pass on the same passion and discipline that shaped his own career—keeping the craft alive, relevant, and evolving for the next generation of metalworkers.