Groundworks Art Lab

This hands-on blacksmithing course is designed for young makers who want to explore the ancient craft of blacksmithing in a fun, safe, and engaging environment. Students will practice traditional blacksmithing techniques such as tapering, bending, and twisting, while learning to use the forge and anvil. Alongside developing valuable crafting skills, participants will gain confidence as they complete a range of creative projects, including but not limited to: a bracelet, hook, and snail.

Throughout the class, students will receive expert guidance on shop safety, fire management, proper tool usage, and how to work effectively with the anvil. By the end of the course, each participant will have the opportunity to leave with their very own handmade metal projects and a basic knowledge of blacksmithing.

What to Wear in the Metals Studio?

We wish for all students to have a safe and enjoyable learning experience. Proper safety equipment and PPE will be provided for use within the studio.

Please dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class inall-natural fiber clothing, long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heelshoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair should betied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are notrecommended around machines, equipment, or processes that can producehot fragments, sparks, or flames. Please avoid synthetic blends, as100% cotton is recommended. Layers are encouraged, as the studio canbegin cool then become very hot.

Welding students are recommended to wear long sleeve shirts to preventarc-flash burns (much like a sunburn). 

All students participating in activities involving sparks or hot metal are encouraged to wear leather boots or older shoes.

Please bring a re-fillable water bottle!

Personal Property: 

Personal materials will need to go home with you at the end of each class. We do not provide storage. 

All Monday and Tuesday classes will be available to register on Monday, March 31 at 8:00am.