It’s essential to have good sets of tongs for blacksmithing so that you can firmly hold hot metal that you’re working with. You’ll need different sizes and styles to match the thickness and shapes of the metal that you’re using in your projects and a blacksmith can’t have too many pairs of tongs.
In this two-evening class, we will explore the basic techniques of forging blacksmiths’ tongs. Since every smith needs tongs (maybe we should say lots of tongs or at least one pair for every stock size that he uses), being able to make the tools that you need is important. Each student will make a pair of light tongs to take home, and learn the skills necessary to build more pairs. Must have taken beginning blacksmithing before attending this class. This class is taught by Jeff Cawley and will be March 14 & 21 for $150 and $15 lab fee.
Rob is a great teacher that will give you the freedom to learn basic skills or go on to the next level in blacksmithing. If you have already had a basic class – bring your ideas of what you would like to try next, and Rob will work with you to make it happen – at least as much as is possible.
Comments from a past student:
As someone who has taught and mentored a lot of people I appreciate your depth of knowledge. It was very confidence building in a somewhat dangerous new environment. Yesterday convinced me that I would like to explore this further.
A journey into the world of the Bladesmith. This intense 6 hour class will focus on the forging skills needed for bladesmithing and forging a blade. a blade with hand shaped construction will be the primary project. A focus on better hand forging skills, grinding, and proper heat treatment will be the core of the class. Basic handle construction, materials, fitting, filing and finish will be covered, it may be possible for students to leave with one completely finished blade based on skill level. A minimum of a beginners blacksmithing workshop is required.
Make sure to wear closed toed shoes and dress in layers, as they the shop gets very warm. While the knife is cooling is a good time to run to Jac’s or bring your own lunch.
A journey into the world of the Bladesmith. This intense 6 hour class will focus on the forging skills needed for bladesmithing and forging a blade. a blade with hand shaped construction will be the primary project. A focus on better hand forging skills, grinding, and proper heat treatment will be the core of the class. Basic handle construction, materials, fitting, filing and finish will be covered, it may be possible for students to leave with one completely finished blade based on skill level. A minimum of a beginners blacksmithing workshop is required.
Make sure to wear closed toed shoes and dress in layers, as they the shop gets very warm. While the knife is cooling is a good time to run to Jac’s or bring your own lunch.
This basic blacksmith class is taught by Shag, a retired farrier. Shag will show you some great tricks of the trade as you begin your journey into blacksmithing.
Dan has been smithing for five years, he built a shop at his home and most days swings a hammer for a few hours. Dan volunteers at the Heritage center in McMinnville, where they have a turn of the century blacksmith shop.
Dan will be teaching you the basics of swinging a hammer as well as taking beginners to new heights as he explores the possibilities of what blacksmithing has to offer. You will gain a working understanding of blacksmith tools and techniques including tapering, flattening, dishing and bending. $75/class
Largest plowing competition with draft animals on the West Coast. 20+ teams of draft horses and mules, Blacksmith, Sawmill, Farm demos, Food, Music, Pioneer kids’ activities, Vendors & More
Anvil will be banding wheels at the event! Every year we do it and it is so much fun!!!
$8 adults – free for kids under 12
Rob is a great teacher that will give you the freedom to learn basic skills or go on to the next level in blacksmithing. If you have already had a basic class – bring your ideas of what you would like to try next, and Rob will work with you to make it happen – at least as much as is possible.
Rob is a great teacher that will give you the freedom to learn basic skills or go on to the next level in blacksmithing. If you have already had a basic class – bring your ideas of what you would like to try next, and Rob will work with you to make it happen – at least as much as is possible.
Rob is a great teacher that will give you the freedom to learn basic skills or go on to the next level in blacksmithing. If you have already had a basic class – bring your ideas of what you would like to try next, and Rob will work with you to make it happen – at least as much as is possible.