Unlock one of the most powerful—and legendary—skills in the smith’s repertoire: forge welding, the original method of joining steel. Before modern machinery, every chain link, axe head, and bar of Damascus steel was made by hand at the anvil. In this immersive five-hour class, you’ll step into that tradition and learn the core techniques that open the door to countless future projects.

Students will gain a clear, practical understanding of the entire welding process, including:

• How to read the zones of the fire

• When and how to apply flux

• Proper preparation and shaping of scarfs

• The differences among common weld types

• Hands-on practice focused on bundle welds and loop welds

By the end of class, you’ll walk away with with the skill to forge weld and a forge welded spoon proof of your new skill and a major step forward on your blacksmithing journey.

Instructor: Smith Justin Whittenberg
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: Core Skills 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.