Prerequisite: Basic Blacksmithing: Intro or equivalent prior experience.

Take your blacksmithing to the next level with this focused, technique-driven course designed to strengthen your core forging skills. Students sharpen their hammer control, fire management, and material-shaping abilities while practicing the essential movements of drawing out, cutting, bending, and twisting. Choose the project track that excites you most:

3 Hooks Class

Forge a spike hook, J-hook, and S-hook—three classic forms that drill the fundamentals. Along the way, you’ll hone your ability to:

• Draw out stock cleanly

• Isolate material with intention

• Shape square, octagon, and round tapers

• Form points and scrolls with precision

• Build consistent hammer control and rhythm

Leaves Class

Create a series of beautiful forged leaves in multiple styles, perfect for gifts, décor, or future projects. This track focuses on:

• Drawing out stem sections

• Isolating material for leaf shapes

• Using hand-held top tools

• Forming clean points

• Reducing cracking and managing stress lines in steel

Both versions offer an engaging, hands-on challenge that deepens your technique and builds the foundation for more advanced blacksmithing. Whether you're refining your craft or leveling up toward larger projects, this course delivers the skills—and the satisfaction—of forging with greater control and confidence.

Instructor: Lead Smith Philip Waters
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 or equivalent prior experience.

• After completing it, students become eligible for Basic Blacksmithing: Forge Welding

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.