Description

Steel is typically seen as a rigid, industrial material – steel girders support vast roofs, steel automobiles are stamped out with machine precision, and even mundane items such as food cans and kitchen appliances are created with straight, exact lines. In this class we’ll be exploring how we can change this rigid material into a graceful, organic shape using both new and old techniques. We’ll use a blend of modern and ancient techniques to shape mild steel and add character and fluidness to what will ultimately become a tentacle-shaped keychain.

Students will learn blacksmithing techniques that reach back as far as the 14th century such as drawing, tapering, and bending in addition to modern techniques such as MIG welding to create additional features on our tentacle. Particular attention will be paid to hammer technique while blacksmithing as this class serves as an introduction to blacksmithing. Students will also be introduced to basic shop techniques and safety including the use of belt sanders, angle grinders, and drill presses. A small amount of introduction to MIG welding will be provided but this course will not cover MIG welding techniques in depth.

No prior experience is needed. You will learn basic blacksmithing techniques including tapering, scrolling, bending, twisting, and finishing.

DATE:  SATURDAY  12/12/26

TIME:  10:00 AM – 4:30 PM

SKILL LEVEL:  ALL LEVELS

INSTRUCTOR BIO

Mark is an artist / blacksmith / fabricator / carpenter / firefighter / paramedic whose main interests lie in making new blacksmiths, fabricators and useful objects, which are very often the same thing. In addition to teaching at the Yard he is also an instructor at the RI Fire Academy and occasional helper / instructor at Prospect Hill Forge in Waltham, MA.

STUDIO POLICIES 

All enrollments are subject to our REGISTRATION & ENROLLMENT POLICIES.