I have a small workshop of only two stations, so the classes I offer will be single-student based. On a rare occasion, I'll teach a pair that comes together. I teach the following "lesson plans" for a willing student:
Notice: Classes at the home shop are currently suspended, we are in winter weather and have had some snow fall.
Apprentice Blacksmithing
What this is: For those who've never worked a forge or metal before and have an interest in getting into the craft. This will teach the basics of working a gas or coal forge, tools of the trade, and how to manipulate steel.
Apprentice Forge Welding
What this is: Strictly speaking, forge welding is a method of joining two metals by heating to a high temperature and hammering them together. This lesson is about the selection of materials, preparation of billets, and welding them together.
Pattern Welding
What this is: Taking the basic knowledge of how to forge weld a billet and now using that to create patterns in the steel once etched. This lesson covers selection of diverse materials and some of the common manipulations to make visible patterns once the billet is etched.
Apprentice Bladesmithing
What this is: An introduction into the craft of bladesmithing. I highly suggest having a familiarity with general blacksmithing before taking this; otherwise we'll be devoting some of the class time to cover basics. Otherwise: this lesson covers the design, forging, grinding, and heat treating of steel to make a blade.
Knifemaking
What this is: Advancing beyond the basics of forging a blade, this will cover the finishing aspects to make a functional tool. This includes a handle for the blade (either scales for a full tang design, or a solid piece for partial tang), a variety of polishing techniques, and sheath design.
Consider the lessons above a guide to helping you decide what you want to learn, and we can design a course layout tailored to your own abilities and desires.
Class fees are $150 a day, I provide a complete workstation with forge, anvil, hand tools, and a vise. I also provide materials for the lesson unless otherwise specified. You're encouraged to bring your own safety equipment (gloves, glasses, apron) if you have them, I only keep enough on hand for myself. For safety all students must be wearing safety glasses and have ear plugs, as well as closed-toe shoes and cotton clothing.
Please note: Due to the winter weather conditions in the White Mountains I won't be offering classes during the snow season. What days constitute the first and last snows of the season vary each year, but it's safe to assume mid-November through at least March.
Notice: Classes at the home shop are currently suspended, we are in winter weather and have had some snow fall.
Apprentice Blacksmithing
What this is: For those who've never worked a forge or metal before and have an interest in getting into the craft. This will teach the basics of working a gas or coal forge, tools of the trade, and how to manipulate steel.
Apprentice Forge Welding
What this is: Strictly speaking, forge welding is a method of joining two metals by heating to a high temperature and hammering them together. This lesson is about the selection of materials, preparation of billets, and welding them together.
Pattern Welding
What this is: Taking the basic knowledge of how to forge weld a billet and now using that to create patterns in the steel once etched. This lesson covers selection of diverse materials and some of the common manipulations to make visible patterns once the billet is etched.
Apprentice Bladesmithing
What this is: An introduction into the craft of bladesmithing. I highly suggest having a familiarity with general blacksmithing before taking this; otherwise we'll be devoting some of the class time to cover basics. Otherwise: this lesson covers the design, forging, grinding, and heat treating of steel to make a blade.
Knifemaking
What this is: Advancing beyond the basics of forging a blade, this will cover the finishing aspects to make a functional tool. This includes a handle for the blade (either scales for a full tang design, or a solid piece for partial tang), a variety of polishing techniques, and sheath design.
Consider the lessons above a guide to helping you decide what you want to learn, and we can design a course layout tailored to your own abilities and desires.
Class fees are $150 a day, I provide a complete workstation with forge, anvil, hand tools, and a vise. I also provide materials for the lesson unless otherwise specified. You're encouraged to bring your own safety equipment (gloves, glasses, apron) if you have them, I only keep enough on hand for myself. For safety all students must be wearing safety glasses and have ear plugs, as well as closed-toe shoes and cotton clothing.
Please note: Due to the winter weather conditions in the White Mountains I won't be offering classes during the snow season. What days constitute the first and last snows of the season vary each year, but it's safe to assume mid-November through at least March.