Jay Aubertin is a craftsman based in Wilmot, New Hampshire, where he transforms metal into both strikingly beautiful and functional works of art. With a deep-rooted expertise in forging, welding, and fabrication, Jay brings raw materials like steel, wood, and copper to life, blending tradition with innovation. His work tells a story of craftsmanship, where every piece is as much a labor of passion as it is of skill.
The Process
Every project begins with a need or a vision. Perhaps it’s a handrail to help a loved one safely navigate stairs, a sculptural idea you’d like to bring to life, or something entirely unique. Whether it’s a renovation, a design element for a new build, or that one-of-a-kind piece of art you’ve imagined, we are committed to clear communication, meeting expectations on time, and delivering the highest quality metalwork possible. Our projects are tailored specifically to each client—and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Following our initial conversation—which often includes a creative exchange of ideas—you’ll receive a detailed project outline, including an estimate and conceptual drawing(s). In most cases, a site visit is necessary to review final details and take precise measurements, ensuring an accurate fit and ideal placement.
Back in the shop, production begins. By this stage, we’ve selected the appropriate materials—steel, bronze, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, or a combination thereof. For example, when crafting a handrail, the process begins by heating the metal in a forge to around 1800°F before forging it into shape. From there, it’s bent, cut, and welded to meet the final dimensions and design.
After the railing components are welded together, we grind, file, and sand each piece as needed to sculpt it to the desired form. Every edge is carefully refined to eliminate sharpness or any other imperfections. The piece isn’t ready for the final steps until it is not only visually striking but also feels smooth and comfortable to the touch.
The finish is chosen based on the specific needs of the application—whether it’s a durable, low-maintenance powder coat or a high-heat paint for something like a firescreen. We also offer a wide range of patina finishes to further customize your project and enhance its character.
When it’s time for installation, we arrive fully equipped with the tools and hardware needed to ensure everything is completed properly. The culmination of our efforts is a finished piece you can enjoy for many years to come—and being part of that lasting result brings us great satisfaction.
From the initial concept to the completed project, our goal is to provide an experience and outcome that is both personally tailored and professionally executed. We take great pride in consistently meeting these goals—delivering quality, craftsmanship, and care every step of the way.
