Matt Jenkins and Karen Rudolph are the kind of makers who believe that everyday objects should tell a story. Together, they run Cloverdale Forge, a Manitoba-based blacksmith studio built on over 45 years of combined experience and a shared love for the transformative power of fire and steel. Matt, as head blacksmith, brings deep hands-on craft to every piece, while Karen keeps the operation running with a sharp focus on the business side. What drives them isn’t just the work itself — it’s the idea that something forged by hand, shaped hammer blow by hammer blow, can outlast its maker and pass through generations.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Cloverdale Forge is a Manitoba-based blacksmith studio owned and operated by Matt Jenkins and Karen Rudolph. With more than 45 years of combined experience, we design, forge, and fabricate custom ironwork, architectural features, and household goods that combine utility, craftsmanship, and a strong visual presence. Our process draws on traditional blacksmithing tools and techniques while also embracing modern methods, allowing the creation of work that is both deeply rooted in craft and responsive to contemporary spaces. Our studio is known for producing distinctive pieces that are built to endure and designed to be lived with.
What made you want to do this work?
Heating up steel to a red-hot and coaxing it into the shape you want it to go – who wouldn’t want to be a blacksmith!
Also, every object we make tells a story and has the potential to be passed from generation to generation; that is the type of work that one can feel good about doing. Not the easiest way to make a paycheck, but one that brings us joy.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
Cloverdale Forge helps solve design problems and provides the opportunity for customers to live with a handmade item, products that tell a story, with each hammer blow leaving a fingerprint of craftsmanship.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Those who appreciate a handmade or handcrafted item.
Those who want to know the maker behind the item they are purchasing.
Those who have a design problem that can only be solved efficiently by a blacksmith.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
Cloverdale Forge has a product line of housewares and blacksmith tools that we sell directly to consumers and wholesale to other businesses. We work with clients to design architectural work and offer workshops to the community during the summer months.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
Cloverdale Forge is located just North of the parameter. Our gallery space and shop are open by appointment; customers can order online, and we can be found at numerous farmers’ and holiday markets throughout the year.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
Not a question, but a situation, we love it when clients present a design struggle they need help overcoming. It is the conversation that helps drive the final design solution.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
Best: The material inspires us daily; we experience steel going from a solid, inorganic material to a malleable one while forging. It is magical – the chance to squish, smash, and smoosh only happens within a specific temperature range for a limited time, but then returns to its hardened solid state. The ability to unlock the material’s potential by applying heat and pressure intrigues us every time we light up the forge.
Worst: We are blacksmiths, there is no worst part!
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
How can you identify a dog owned by a blacksmith?
Cause every time you scare it, it makes a BOLT for the door.
How did the apprentice become the master blacksmith in one day? The master smith said, when I nod my head… You hit it.
Where can we follow you?
Instagram | Facebook | Website
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
Mighty Kiwi, Three + Tea, The Churro Stop, LOT.ceramics
