Blacksmithing 101 programs at The Forge at Art Center West serve as introductions to forging arts and are focused on project-based learning, including ornamental and functional iron works such as hooks, forks, leaves and fire pokers.

Your program will be an instructional journey through tools and equipment, material selection, body mechanics, design considerations, forging techniques, basic heat-treating principles and finishing methods. You will experience a very active class with an emphasis on hands-on learning with a hammer, heat and iron. Safe work habits will be emphasized and instruction will include projects that encompass basic blacksmithing techniques, including: bending, tapering, twisting, slitting, drifting, and riveting. Students can expect to make several small objects as they become more confident at the anvil, and will use the foundational skills acquired to create unique personal projects as they become more acclimated in the forge.