About Us
Experience the art of blacksmithing like never before at Lawless Forge. Whether you’re looking to create your own metalwork, discover a new hobby, or simply enjoy a unique and hands-on experience, we offer an unparalleled opportunity to forge something truly special. With expert guidance and old-world workshops, Lawless Forge is the perfect destination for beginners and seasoned smiths alike. Discover the thrill of shaping metal with fire and hammer—choose Lawless Forge, where craftsmanship meets creativity.
Why Us
We’re here to bring people closer together through blacksmithing experiences. We provide people the freedom to let loose, try the forbidden, and push the limits of their comfort zones by truly being “Lawless.” Teams forge stronger bonds by journeying beyond the ordinary together. What sets Lawless Forge apart is our commitment to creating a memorable and engaging experience. Our shops are equipped with everything you need to forge quality, lasting creations, whether you’re making a knife, a bottle opener, or a decorative piece. We also emphasize safety and education, ensuring that every participant leaves with not only a finished product but also a deeper understanding of the blacksmithing process. At Lawless Forge, we don’t just offer a class; we offer a journey into the heart of blacksmithing.
Our Owners
After several years working in tech at companies like Amazon and Microsoft, Max Levi realized the desk-job life wasn’t for him. He wanted something hands-on—something real. Blacksmithing had been a personal passion for years, and eventually it became clear this was the path forward. Max stepped away from the corporate world to build something of his own.
That something became Lawless Forge.
Founded in Seattle’s SoDo neighborhood in 2017, Lawless Forge was built to be more than just a workshop. It’s a place where people challenge themselves through an ancient craft most never imagined trying. In the process, they don’t just shape steel—they learn something about themselves. Since opening its doors, Lawless Forge has expanded to locations in Marysville, WA and Sterling, VA, with plans to continue growing as a national franchise—bringing this experience to more people, one forge at a time.
Behind that growth is Kelsey Levi, who leads the day-to-day operations that keep Lawless Forge running strong. As Max’s partner in both life and business, Kelsey helps shape the vision while managing the front- and back-end operations across all locations. With a background in business management, she plays a critical role in the company’s stability and sustainability—overseeing logistics, finances, systems, and the customer experience that has become central to the Lawless Forge brand. Her leadership and operational expertise have been instrumental in keeping the business thriving as it continues to grow.
With a big heart for community and a passion for pushing people beyond their comfort zones, Kelsey ensures every class is not just memorable, but meaningful—while keeping teams connected and aligned behind the scenes.
Max and Kelsey have been building together since they met in 2019, combining craft and strategy, vision, and execution. Together, they form an unstoppable team—driven by shared values, mutual respect, and a belief that forging steel can forge confidence, resilience, and connection.
Our SHOPS
When you step into Lawless Forge, you’re immediately enveloped by an atmosphere that fuses the raw energy of industrial design with the warmth of hands-on work. Each location is nestled in vibrant neighborhoods, reflecting the unique character of its surroundings. Whether you’re in an urban hub or a tucked-away artisan district, the moment you walk through our doors, you know you’re in for something extraordinary.
The anvils are well-worn but meticulously maintained, each with its own history and purpose. As you pick up a hammer and feel the heat radiating from the forge, you can sense the generations of craftsmanship that have come before you. This is a place where tradition meets innovation, where the past and present collide to create something truly unique.
MEET OUR TEAM
Learn more about the people behind The Lawless Forge.
Dustin
I’m Dustin, Operations Manager, and I’ve been working in architectural fabrication and welding for a little over ten years now. I try to keep the shop running smoothly and safely, and I really appreciate being part of a good team. Outside of work, I love getting out on the water to fish or just spending time in the outdoors with my dog and my girlfriend.
Sean
My name is Sean, I grew up in Seattle. My favorite Lawless class to teach is the Damascus Rings because it’s a fun opportunity to teach with various tooling. I don’t have a favorite item that I have forged, but I am very fond of my recent duck sculpture, quack, quack.
Cade
I’m Cade Powers, a Navy Vet born in the Midwest; solving problems before they become problems and learning new skills has always been my driving force. Since leaving the service, I’ve made my home here in the PNW, and my focus has been on the forge. Where each new technique is both more challenging than the last and more rewarding to teach back to my students. The Flower Bouquet is a great example; It’s accessible at all skill levels, and the effort you put in shows up in the steel. Both Beginner and Advanced smiths will walk away with a beautiful piece of art that they made their own. Let me teach Ya how to swing a hammer real good!
Ben
My name is Ben Rogers. I have been knife-making and metalworking since I was 14. I started with a DIY setup in my backyard, forging and selling handcrafted pieces, and trying not to set my neighbors’ fence on fire doing it! Knives and silver jewelry are my favorite things to create in my free time, and my favorite classes are the bottle opener and ring class!
Alex
Newest Lawless instructor enjoys learning new teaching and smithing techniques from fellow “Forgemasters”! Favorite classes to teach are horseshoe, knife, and bottle openers.
Nikk
Hey there, I’m Nikk. I’ve been with Lawless since 2021, and I started smithing in my backyard when I was a teen. I’m a fan of forging decorative metal with the odd tool or knife here and there. Let’s make some art together!
Kiran
I’ve been at Lawless Forge for about 2 years. My favorite thing I’ve ever forged has been my first axe. And my favorite Lawless Forge class is the Flower Class because it allows you to get creative and think outside the box.
Spiff
The reason why I instruct blacksmithing is that I know everyone has a creative passion to get in touch with, using fire, determination, and hard work. I know that when anyone sees they can move steel with heat and a hammer, they know they can do anything. I believe in reminding people they are good at many things, and this is a unique chance for them to remember. “You are better at this than you think you are.”
Jay
Coming soon…
Buddy
Coming soon…
Baby
Among the many dogs that romp through the forge, Baby is the mascot and lives true to her name by being a spoiled lapdog despite being the size of a small horse.
OUR LOCATIONS
Lawless Forge has three locations, each offering the same hands-on blacksmithing experience. Whether you’re visiting our original shop in Seattle, joining us in Northern Virginia, or forging in the Pacific Northwest, you’ll get expert instruction, a welcoming environment, and a class worth remembering.
SEATTLE, WA
Located in the heart of Seattle’s SODO district our Seattle Lawless Forge is where industrial charm meets creative spirit. Surrounded by the vibrant energy of the city’s art scene this shop offers a unique blend of urban grit and artisan craftsmanship.
Seattle, WA 98134
STERLING, VA
Nestled in the heart of Loudoun County our Sterling Lawless Forge brings the art of blacksmithing to Northern Virginia with a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern flair. Located just outside the hustle and bustle of Washington, D.C.
Sterling, VA 20166
Marysville, WA
Surrounded by natural beauty and a close-knit community in the town, Marysville Lawless Forge brings the timeless art of blacksmithing to the serene Pacific Northwest. This location is the perfect place to escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the age-old craft of blacksmithing all while enjoying the peaceful charm of Snohomish County.
Marysville, WA 98270
Your Next Date Night, Birthday Party, or Bachelor Party
Make it memorable with a hands-on blacksmithing experience your group won’t forget. Try something new, create lasting memories together, and take home a one-of-a-kind piece you crafted yourself.