Blacksmithing Classes
Learn the art of blacksmithing in our historic Wagon Shop! Beginner and intermediate classes are offered in the spring, summer, and fall. Coppersmithing workshops are offered in the summer. Scroll down for schedules and class descriptions or join our Blacksmithing email list. Returning students, scroll down to add your name to the Basic Blacksmithing Level 2, 3, & 4 scheduling list.
Blacksmithing is a physical art and safety is our number one priority. Students swing hammers, work with hot metal, and move between workstations on a packed dirt floor. For their own safety and that of others, all students must be able to take direction from our instructor. If you have questions about Blacksmithing classes or about accessibility and accommodations, please contact us at info@thvmail.org before registering and we will be happy to help!
Due to the high demand and limited space in these classes, purchases are non-refundable and non-exchangeable.
Beginner / Introductory Level Classes
Basic Blacksmithing Level 1
Wednesdays, June 25-July 30, 6:30pm-9pm
THS Member: $310 | Non-member: $360
During this six-week introductory course focusing on the fundamental processes of traditional blacksmithing, you will learn 12 basic hand-forging techniques as you make your own trowel. Learn how to properly swing a hammer, operate a coal forge, and pump a centuries-old bellows.
Ages 12 & up
No prerequisite
You must attend all six classes. In particular, the first class includes vital safety information. Missing the first class or any of the other classes forfeits your place in the Blacksmithing Class and you will not be refunded.
Adult-Child Blacksmithing: Ice Cream Spade
Saturday July 12, 10am-1pm
THS Member: $185/pair | Non-member: $220/pair
Come forge an “ice cream spade” as you discover the world of traditional blacksmithing! The two of you will learn 5 hand forging techniques while making this fun serving utensil together. There will be a 30-minute break in this 3-hour class.
Child partner must be age 10 or older
No prerequisite
Blacksmithing Sampler
Saturday July 19, 10am-11:30am
THS Member: $48 | Non-member: $58
Step alongside the Village forge and discover what it’s like to “make the anvil ring!” Learn 4 basic hand forging techniques while making your own square tapered nail as it was done centuries ago.
Ages 12 & up
No prerequisite
Weekend Intensive Copper & Iron Workshop
Saturday August 9 & Sunday August 10, 10am-5pm
THS Member: $350 | Non-member: $400
A great alternative to our weeklong introductory workshop in copper and iron, this two-day intensive immerses you into the old-world crafts of coppersmithing and blacksmithing at a modern day pace. The proper use of fire, hammers and other tools will be emphasized as you create a unique bird feeder mobile. Sinking, raising, chasing-and-repoussage, bending, riveting, and annealing are some of the hot and cold forging techniques you will learn.
Ages 18 & up
No prerequisite
Introductory Copper & Iron Workshop
Monday August 18-Friday August 22, 10am-12:30pm
THS Member: $260 | Non-member: $310
Learn the traditional arts of coppersmithing and blacksmithing as you make a unique bird feeder mobile. You will learn hot and cold forging techniques including sinking, raising, chasing-and-repoussage, bending, riveting and annealing. Emphasis will be on the proper use of hammers and other hand tools, as well as the use of fire to work both metals in this weeklong workshop.
Ages 15 & up
No prerequisite
You must attend all five classes. In particular, the first class includes vital safety information. Missing the first class or any of the other classes forfeits your place in the Coppersmithing Class and you will not be refunded.
Intermediate Classes for Returning Student
Intermediate Copper & Iron Workshop: Footed Bowl
Monday August 18-Friday August 22, 6pm-8:30pm
THS Member: $260 | Non-member: $310
Returning students will design and create a copper and iron footed bowl with elements inspired by modern British sculptor, Barbara Hepworth. Emphasis will be on the importance of both positive and negative space within a composition. Hot and cold forging of copper and iron, drifting, swaging, fullering and raising are some of the techniques you will expand on in this weeklong workshop. This class is second in our series exploring motifs taken from famous artists’ work.
Ages 16 & up
Prerequisite: Introductory Copper & Iron Workshop
Basic Blacksmithing Level 2
Classes are forming now!
THS Member: $310 | Non-member: $360
Build on the skills taught in Basic Blacksmithing Level 1 as you forge a pair of tongs! In this 6 week course you will learn the technique of shouldering and take on the challenge of creating mechanical movement. Focus will be on developing control and consistency of hammering techniques.
Ages 12 & up
Prerequisite: Basic Blacksmithing Level 1
Basic Blacksmithing Level 3
Classes are forming now!
THS Member: $310 | Non-member: $360
In this six-week course you will forge a table trivet. Emphasis will be on developing both physical and visual balance within your trivet. You will learn how to use a spiral jig and make lap joints as well as the many valuable steps in making repeat parts.
Ages 13 & up
Prerequisite: Basic Blacksmithing Levels 1 & 2
NEW! Basic Blacksmithing Level 4
Classes are forming now!
THS Member: $310 | Non-member: $360
In this six-week course you will forge mortise-and-tenon joints and square corner bends, while further honing your precision skills. Learn how to use slit chisels, spring fullers and square drifts, as well as specific hammering sequences. There will be several choices for the final product you create from these techniques.
Ages 14 & up
Prerequisite: Basic Blacksmithing Levels 1, 2, & 3
Anvil Time
Classes are offered April – November
THS Member: $150 | Non-member: $190
Hone the skills you acquired in Basic Blacksmithing Level 1 while working on a project of your choice. Students are encouraged to make something that is meaningful to them. You may choose from a variety of projects or create your own. Come to class prepared to discuss your ideas for this 4-week course.
Ages 12 & up
Prerequisite: Basic Blacksmithing Level 1