Explore blacksmithing or develop your skills at the forge to create your own cooking utensils. In this three-day course we will cover everything from the basic mechanics of swinging a hammer to working with stainless steel and copper while completing a set of tools you can cook with. We will start out with making a rack that will hang your tools and progress into making a set of different utensils including a steak flipper, grill fork, spatula, large spoon, and a set of skewers. This course is open to students ages 16+.

Sure, there are many ways to keep your pants on, but a handmade belt and hand-forged buckle is arguably the coolest way. Learn blacksmithing and leatherwork in this unique course offering. The first two days, students will be in the forge learning basic techniques while making at least two different styles of belt buckles. Students will start off with Nordic Viking and Celtic-style belt buckles and move on to more modern designs the second day, learning about finishes. The third day, students will jump into the world of leatherworking, making belts from vegetable-tanned leather. Students will learn about cutting, thinning, riveting, and finishing leather with various techniques and tools. Some tooling and stamping of the leather will be optional. To practice and learn these leather techniques, students will also make a leather key chain. After this, you’ll never get caught with your pants down.

Learn the fundamentals to create the metal sculpture of your dreams. This workshop will start with concepts and design while each participant works on their own individual sculpture. Basic metal working techniques will be covered including cutting, drilling, forging, and welding. Other skills will be taught based on your project needs.

Workshops run from 9:00am to 5:00pm each day
Lunch is included for all participants

Students will go from concept to finished work during this week-long workshop. Students should come with an idea, or let technique and the moment inspire their creation. Shop and material safety, layout, basic steel construction and connection techniques will be covered before students are able to create confidently on their own. Students can make something for a gallery show or to elevate their garden!

Sure, there are many ways to keep your pants on, but a handmade belt and hand-forged buckle is arguably the coolest way. Learn blacksmithing and leatherwork in this unique course offering. The first two days students will be in the forge learning basic techniques while making at least two different style belt buckles. Students will start off with Nordic Viking and Celtic-style belt buckles and move on to more modern designs the second day, learning about finishes. The third day, students will jump into the world of leatherworking, making belts from vegetable-tanned leather. Students will learn about cutting, thinning, riveting, and finishing leather with various techniques and tools. Some tooling and stamping of the leather will be optional. To practice and learn these leather techniques, students will also make a leather key chain. After this, you’ll never get caught with your pants down.

Co taught with Sam Gathje

In this workshop, you'll explore and practice both blacksmithing and metal fabrication tools and techniques to create a sculpture from steel for your home or garden.  Elizabeth will cover a range of techniques that you can use to complete your project including basic forging, cutting, welding, riveting, and drilling. She'll also emphasize design and finishing processes. You'll focus on your individual project that can be accomplished within the three-day time frame;  come with an idea in mind or let inspiration strike! The workshop is open to all levels of experience, from absolute beginners to experienced blacksmiths looking to learn from a master artisan.