Many villages host a blacksmith to repair old tools and make a few new ones. The job is part-time for the smith, with most work done during the winter when the heat of the forge is more welcome and his own fields don’t need tending. Because smithing appears somewhat mystical to most societies (the skills take surprisingly long to acquire and the process looks arcane to outsiders), the smith and his shop may be regarded with a touch of superstitious awe. Though rarely great artists or full-time professionals, blacksmiths are vital craftsmen.