Flux Core MIG Welding for Beginners

Ready to spark your creativity and join the ranks of metalworking masters? Ever wanted to learn how to weld one hunk of steel to another block of steel? Dive into SHOP150: Intro to (Flux Core) MIG Welding, where we'll turn up the heat on your DIY skills! This $30 class runs 60-minute and will have you fusing metal like a pro in no time.

Forget the notion that welding is just for mechanics or industrial workers. Today's welders are artists, inventors, and problem-solvers across countless fields. From crafting intricate sculptural masterpieces to repairing spacecraft components, MIG welding opens an incredible number of creative doors. Whether you dream of customizing hot rods, building robot armies, or simply fixing that wobbly garden gate, we've got you covered.

IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE:
Please come to the class wearing nonsynthetic long pants (like jeans) that fully cover your legs. We will provide Welding jackets, gloves, and welding masks.

In this hands-on session, you'll learn:

The Basics of Welding

• Welding 101: Demystifying the art of melting metal (without melting your shoes)
• What MIG welding is and its advantages
• Safety considerations in welding
• General MIG welder anatomy

MIG Welding Equipment

• Introduction to MIG welding machines
• Learning the lingo that'll make you sound like a welding wizard - MIG welder components and their functions
• Additional materials used for MIG welding (wire, shielding gas, metals)
• Preparing your workspace and equipment for welding

MIG Welding Best Practices

• Important reminders for safe and effective welding
• Setting up your MIG welder (wire feed speed, voltage)
• Basic welding techniques (gun angle, travel speed, beads)

We'll cover essential safety tips, machine setup, and basic techniques that'll have you laying down beautiful beads. No experience required – just bring your curiosity and a willingness to embrace your inner metalworker. By the end of SHOP150, you'll have the skills to tackle basic flux core MIG welding projects and the confidence to keep exploring this red-hot craft.

And who knows? You might just spark a lifelong passion too!

Hi, my name’s Erik. I’m a mechanical engineer by day, a Maker by night, and a pyrotechnician on weekends and days off. I’ve been passionate about metalworking, welding, woodworking, and the maker community my entire life. I have over half a decade of experience teaching 3D printing, CNC programming, and laser cutting at the Colorado School of Mines and Arapahoe Community College. Additionally, I work as a lead pyrotechnician for Night Musick, Inc., performing professional fireworks shows across Colorado. I love learning about others’ projects and passions, so let’s chat next time you’re in the space.