Introduction to Blacksmithing – Experience Days, Workshops & Courses

If you’ve ever wanted to stand at a real forge, hammer hot steel and make something solid with your own hands, these courses are for you.

I run introductory blacksmithing courses for complete beginners, from half-day tasters through to two-day workshops. You’ll learn the basic skills of traditional forging and go home with a finished piece of your own.

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Who it’s for:

• Complete beginners - no previous metalwork experience needed

• People who like learning by doing, not by watching

• Individuals, pairs or small groups looking for a memorable experience day

• Gift experiences for birthdays, anniversaries or ‘always wanted to try this’ moments

What you’ll learn

Over the course you’ll be introduced to:

• Working safely at the forge and anvil

• Heating, hammering and shaping mild steel

• Basic techniques such as tapering, twisting, bending and scrolling

• Using hand tools (hammers, tongs, punches, chisels)

• Finishing your piece so you can take it home and use it

The emphasis is very much on hands-on making – you will spend most of your time at the anvil rather than in a chair.

What you’ll make:

On a half-day introduction you might make one or two smaller items, for example:

• A hand-forged bottle opener

• A simple wall or coat hook

• A set of S-hooks for the kitchen or workshop

• A small leaf keyring or pendant

• On a full day or two-day course, there is time for more involved work, such as:

• A fire poker or toasting fork

• A simple candle holder or tea-light stand

• A plant hanger or small bracket

• A forged iron bracelet or bangle

• A decorative piece with a leaf, feather or arrowhead detail

The exact project will depend on your experience, confidence and how long you’re here. We’ll discuss options at the start of the day so you make something that suits you and fits the time.

How the day runs

• Short safety briefing and introduction to the forge

• Demonstration of the basic techniques you’ll be using

• Guided practice at the anvil, working through your project step by step

• Breaks for tea/coffee and to let the arms recover

• Final finishing and a chance to admire (and photograph) your work

• Group sizes are kept small so everyone has plenty of time on the tools and individual help when they need it.

What’s included / what to bring

• All tools, materials and safety equipment are provided

• You’ll need to wear cotton or wool clothing, long trousers and sturdy closed shoes or boots

• No synthetic sportswear near the forge, please

• Bring a packed lunch and anything else you need for the day

You will go home with your finished piece – and probably some pleasantly tired arms.

Booking

Current dates, availability and prices for my blacksmithing courses are listed on my online booking page.

Click here to see upcoming Introduction to Blacksmithing courses and book your place.