Beginners Basic Blacksmithing Classes – “C” Session January 4, 2020

Beginners Basic Blacksmithing Classes – ‘C’ Session, January 4, 11, and 18 in Ramsey (MN School of Horseshoeing)

The beginners basic classes are designed to give everyone the same understanding of the basics, techniques and terminology. The basic classes or proficiency is required before taking any of the many other classes the Guild offers. This enables those classes to concentrate on advanced techniques without having to spend time on basic concepts.
This 3 day class covers the basics of: Safety, Tools, Fire Control, Forging Dynamics, Tapers (ribbon, fishtail, point), Twisting, Riveting, Shouldering, Upset, Cutting, Splitting, Punching, Heat Treat, Scrolling, Bending, Forge weld.
Cost: (covers everything you need, the facility, coal, metal tools and workbook)
$180 for members, $190 non members
Minors (under 18) can share a forge with a guardian for an additional $30
Dates and Location:
The classes are held on Saturdays at the Minnesota School of Horseshoeing, 6250 Riverdale Dr NW, just off Hwy 10 near the Anoka Vocational College or in Cleveland, MN near Mankato.
What you need to bring:
Eye, ear and skin protection. This includes safety glasses, ear muff or plugs and suitable clothing which includes hard shoes, cotton or leather. Synthetic and polyester clothing will burn and melt. There will be sparks and brushes against hot metal.
Tools:
Tools are provided but if you have a favorite hammer, punches, chisels and tools, bring them along. A small 1 to 2 pound ball peen hammer would work. We have various hammers for you to try and get a feel for what is comfortable.
Typical day:
Classes start at 9 but people usually show up much earlier to get the coffee brewing, have a donut, swap stories or show off recent projects. Feel free to bring projects you are working on to show. We break for lunch. You can either bring a brown bag or go out to a local fast food restaurant. Classes end between 3 and 5.
To sign up for the three day Beginners classes in January (C session) :
Send a check made out to The Guild of Metalsmiths to:
Gordon Barr agbarr@aol.com
11021 27th Ave
Burnsville, MN 55337
($180 for members, $190 non members)