Intro To Blacksmithing: Letter Opener

Class Description

This class is an introduction to blacksmithing--no prior experience required! Students will work to make a letter opener out of mild steel. In the process, they will learn safety, basic blacksmithing techniques and tools, twisting, scrolling, drawing, filing, and finishing. Students are encouraged to bring water and a snack!

The materials fee for this class is $15. This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts Venmo.

Learning Objectives

• Safety in the Metal Shop
• Blacksmithing Technique
• Blacksmithing Tools

Instructor - Nico Fine @definecrafts

Nico has been blacksmithing for 3 years, and used to volunteer as an instructor at Adam's Forge in Los Angeles. He's specialized in kitchen knives, but also likes experimenting with other forging techniques. Outside of the forge, Nico a mechanical engineer, and is an avid multi-material maker. He does woodworking, glassblowing, sewing, 3D printing, and neon tube bending. Some of his favorite projects are a sailboat made using stitch-and-glue technique, a large LED artwork for a festival, and an 1:1 scale aluminum banana made out of his-roommate's soda habit and a backyard forge. Nico enjoys teaching blacksmithing to improve access to this ancient skill.

Target Audience

Students who are comfortable in a high-heat environment for sustained periods of time, and are comfortable with loud noises. This class is best suited for ages 14 and older, any student under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Your Ticket Includes

• A handmade letter opener upon completion of the course
• Stock, and all tools required for the class.
• Used shop safety glassed and hearing protection
• Access to A2's Metal Shop and tools for the duration of the session.

Class Policies

Attire: Students should come to class with closed toed shoes, natural fiber clothing (synthetics can melt to skin), long pants, and long hair should be tied back. If students have their own eye and ear protection, they should bring that. Students should bring a water bottle and snack, and note-taking equipment if they desire.

Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies Here.

Please email education@artisansasylum.com with any questions.

*Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep.