Blacksmiths were vital in the Middle Ages, as they crafted armor, weapons, tools and other metal goods needed to protect knights and villagers from threats. They produced armor, siege weapons, jewelry and more using their forge. Blacksmiths ate a typical medieval diet of meat, bread, and water, and sometimes roasted meats like peacock or swan. To avoid burns from sparks, blacksmiths wore protective leather aprons, boots, gloves and overalls while working at the forge.