This two-day workshop introduces students to the safe and effective use of the power hammer for forging steel.

Students will learn how the machine works and how to control hot material beneath the dies. Demonstrations will cover drawing out, tapering, spreading, isolating mass and creating texture. The class will also address forging temperature, work holding, body position and basic tooling.

Students will practice moving between the power hammer and the anvil as they complete a series of structured exercises. The goal is to build confidence with the machine and develop skills that can support future sculptural, functional or toolmaking projects.

Prior blacksmithing experience is helpful but not required.

Students Should Bring

● Leather steel toe boots or safety-toe boots

● Long natural-fiber pants

● Long-sleeved natural-fiber shirt

● Notebook or sketchbook

● Reusable water bottle