Made in ILLINOISouth!

Carbon Forge Design, McLeansboro

For as long as he can remember, Hamilton County native Nicholas Burke has loved to work with his hands. Burke worked with his dad in the family shop ever since he was a child, and that has translated into quite a talent for creating things. A few years ago Burke started Carbon Forge Design, and ever since then − his works of art have continued to expand. Burke uses centuries old techniques and tools, along with new technology to create some truly amazing pieces. Some of the things he specializes in are custom fire pits, organic home decor, and signage of all types.

Burke also uses a very interesting approach when creating some of his projects. “Whenever I start something truly custom, I don’t know how it’s going to turn out,” Burke admits. “A lot of these are handmade where I start with one single spot, and I don’t draw out anything beforehand.” Many of these items are made from steel, but Burke recently branched out to try something new. “Here over the last couple of years I’ve been delving into woodwork, and it’s a very new thing for me,” Burke explains. His most popular items right now are uniquely designed wooden serving trays that incorporate morel mushrooms as relics. Aside from making things to sell, Burke also travels to different art shows to showcase his work − but in the end, knowing his work can be enjoyed by generations of folks is what satisfies him the most. “I want to be able to make these unique things that people are proud to own,” he adds. “I expect all of these things I’m making to last longer than the people that own them. It’s really what keeps me doing this is people receiving it well − and loving all these different things.” For more information on Burke and his creations, visit carbonforgedesign.com. If you'd like to watch our video feature on Carbon Forge Design, as well as our other Made in ILLINOISouth feature stories − look for ILLINOISouth Tourism on YouTube!