Our Forge welding classes are designed for students who already understand the fundamentals of forge welding and are ready to expand their proficiency through focused, skill-building instruction.

Technique classes focus entirely on a single welding method. No project is completed in these sessions, allowing students multiple opportunities to practice and refine the weld under guided instruction.

Project classes split time between learning a specific welding technique and completing a small project that directly applies that skill.

Class Options

January — Technique: Drop Tong Welds (Lap Welds)
Used to join two bars end-to-end, drop tong welds are a foundational joint frequently employed when forging tongs and other handled tools.

March — Project: Chain Links & O-Rings
Chain links and O-rings are among the more approachable specialty welds and are an excellent way to develop consistency and accuracy in forge welding.

April — Technique: Split Welds
Split welds are used to join thin material that would otherwise be difficult to weld, or to insert one piece of steel into another for strong, clean joints.

July — Project: Welded-Face Hammer
Forge a small hammer from mild steel and weld a high-carbon steel face to create a functional, heat-treatable striking surface.

September — Technique: TBD

November — Project: Basket-Welded Ornament
Learn basket welding techniques and apply them to the creation of decorative holiday ornaments.

Instructor: Smith Justin Whittenburg
Location & Duration: The Village Smithy, 5.5 hours
Materials: All materials provided

Enrollment & Refunds

• Enrollment must be completed at least one week before the class date.

• No refunds are offered once the enrollment fee has been received.

• If a student cannot attend, they may reschedule once on a space-available basis. To reschedule, students must contact us in writing before the class begins at info@pioneerfarms.org. No exceptions.

Prerequisites

• Basic Blacksmithing: Intro To Forge Welding or equivalent prior experience.

What to Wear

• A cotton or other natural-fiber shirt (long sleeves optional)

• Long pants or jeans

• Work boots or closed-toe shoes

What to Bring

• Safety glasses (required)

• Hearing protection (optional)

• Water (at least 1 gallon in the summer)

• Sack lunch (classes include a 30-minute break)

• Gourmet sandwiches, chips, and drinks are available for purchase in the General Store.

Age Requirements

• Class is designed for ages 18 and older.

• Ages 15–17 may enroll if a parent or legal guardian signs the attendance release form at the start of class.

• Ages 12–14 may enroll only if a parent or legal guardian also enrolls in and attends the class with them. No exceptions.