Blacksmithing Basics: Barbeque Fork

Scraps is our nonbinary metal shop quing who has a passion for taking action at Artisan’s Asylum to make our space even more iconic. They are passionate about increasing access to Artisan’s Asylum and have been instrumental in developing opportunities like the metal shop residency program. Scraps has been a part of the Artisan’s Asylum community since they were 19 and has lived in the walls ever since, helping out and doing work as a tool tester for several years. They now teach many of the welding classes in our metal shop, and founded our blacksmithing program.

Blacksmithing is one of the most ancient types of metal work and it is still practiced today for the power in creating tools. In this class we’ll stay true to the origins of the craft and make a simple tool in the form of a barbecue fork! Through this process we’ll learn the fundamental techniques such as tapering, splitting, and a decorative twist. This class is perfect for anyone ready to dive into this beautiful ancient craft.

The materials fee for this class is $10. 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 payments in cash or through Venmo.

The required skills to use all tools covered in the class to Artisan's Asylum safety standards.

Set up and shut down the forge

Some fundamental skills of blacksmithing, tapering, decorative twists, splitting and more

Proper hammer skills

An understanding of heating metal when and how to forge efficiency

mild steel round stock

Available accommodations: people concerned about accessibility can reach out to set aside an extra 1 hour before the class to discuss accommodations at no additional cost

Attire: Participants should wear close-toed slip-resistant shoes (steel-toe work boots are ideal), long pants, and no loose-fitting clothing that could possibly get caught in machinery. Make sure to wear only natural fibers, i.e. cotton wool, linen, etc. Bring reading glasses if needed for detail work.

Students must be 16 years old or older. All students under 18 must be accompanied by and under the direct supervision of a responsible adult.

Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies here.

Please email [email protected] with any questions.

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

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Artisan's Asylum, 96 Holton Street, Boston, United States