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Blacksmithing Workshop: Forging Your First Blade
September 28 @ 9:00 am - September 29 @ 5:00 pm
$465This class is designed for first timers in the blacksmith shop who have an interest in knifemaking. We will focus on basic forging techniques and how they are applied to bladesmithing. The knives we make will be simple camping style blades with an emphasis on forging not fine finish work. Due to the short nature of this class, we will be moving fast and working on the basic foundations of knife making, coal fire operation, hammer control, low tech heat treatment, simple grinding and basic sharpening. We will not cover much in the way of woodworking or handle making. This workshop is designed for beginners, and participants need no previous experience to take part.
Workshops run from 9:00am to 5:00pm each day
Lunch is included for all participants
Level: Beginner and Beyond
Type: Blacksmithing
Ages: Adult
You will need to bring the following materials/supplies to the workshop:
- safety equipment: safety glasses, hearing protection, leather gloves (optional)
- Proper clothing: Natural fiber clothing (no synthetics), long pants, boots (no open toe shoes)
- hair ties for long hair
- sports bottle for drinking water
About the Instructor:
Sean Fitzsimmons is a blacksmith and bladesmith from Sussex county NJ. He got his start right here at Peter’s Valley 10 years ago and has been a full time metalworker for 2 years. He has also taught at the John C Campbell Folk School, and has completed residencies at the Center For Metal Arts. He currently makes bespoke blades and tools for home, craft and harvest use.
