I took a weekend introductory course for the basics in welding and blacksmithing with Donald in January of 2017. When I was a kid I had seen my dad do some welding and blacksmithing on the ranch, and I hope to make a hobby farm in the future, so when I met Donald and heard he is a blacksmith and has his own shop in east Vancouver, I had the idea of learning the basic concepts and skills myself. He sent me some preparatory reading so I would know some basic info, most importantly safety, of course. The more I read and understood, the more questions I had, being a complete beginner. Donald loved all my questions and answered everything very well. I didn't have any specific idea on a project to work on, so, since I work I pest control, he suggested a dragonfly. Great idea. Once we went through an introduction to safety and the tools and basic techniques, I cut out and shaped the various body parts, and on the second day we welded them together, using special magnetic clamps to hold them in place. I had great fun, Drogon the Dragonfly looks happy. I might paint him metallic green later. I highly recommend Donald as a creative blacksmith and as a patient and enthusiastic teacher. read more

This past Jan/Feb I had the good fortune to take a number of private lessons from Donald at his shop to help me with some metal sculptures I was working on. I found the shop to be spotless and fully equipped with state of the art "metal shop" equipment and tools. I ended up taking about 10 classes in everything from honing my skill/technique using a MIG and TIG welder, plasma cutting and much more. I found Donald to be an excellent teacher: available/flexible at scheduling classes, knowledgeable, patient and easy to learn from. I would encourage anyone looking to learn or improve their knowledge and skill in any and all aspects of metal work to take classes from Donald. Hy R. read more

Donald Dawson can problem-solve and come up with ideas for alternative ways to repair, restructure or reinvent items that you might think can't be salvaged. No problem is too complicated. He's patient, honest and thorough, and his vast experience shows itself quickly. If you need something done, he's on it. Whether you need a machine or motor repaired or adjusted or want a welding or blacksmithing workshop, he's committed to you. read more

Exceptional service! I had to change my design a few times in order to keep the cost down. Donald responded to all my emails and requests in a friendly, helpful, and timely manner and he was able to get the frames completed in just a few days. His work is professional and flawless! Donald and his wife even delivered the frames on the weekend outside of their business hours so I can get them sooner. Highly recommend! read more

I hired Don to repair an antique (1920's) horse and sulky copper and brass weathervane. The rider was off the saddle, reins were bent, and the wheels were bent with some of the spokes broken. Don was able to fix everything and straighten everything out, without ruining the vintage patina of the piece. It looks wonderful; I highly recommend! read more

We came to Donald with a difficult request and he worked hard, and with care, to fix our issue. He was always extremely helpful in what could, and couldn't be done, with the rare (and very old) piece of equipment and he did not stop working until we were completely satisfied. Would happily hire again. Extremely knowledgable and attentive. read more

Donald is a great help and his knowledge and skill are vast. He repaired a ventilation system, redid electric on two pieces of small equipment, got a hydraulic press working and recreated a damaged part with his sheet and welding ability for me. I am grateful to know I have a help like this for when I need it. read more

Donald designed and built a rolling, folding ramp that was both lightweight, and could handle 2000 lb. His designs were elegant. It works amazingly. He is both an "ideas" guy and a very skilled fabricator. Donald clearly loves his job. His work was flawless. read more

I had six dining room chairs from the 1970s that needed welding on the bases. Donald was quick to respond to my texts, got the job done in less than two days and the price was very reasonable. Solid and dependable metal repairs; very professional. read more

Great shop! Superb craftsman! Donald really does innovate, plus deliver on time.