I’ve reserved the blacksmithing area for three all day classes in October for the 4th, 5th and 6th. Mark Aspery will be teaching those days from 8:00AM to 5:00PM. He’s going to instruct on how to make: a Hook and Latch, Stag’s Head Hinge and Basket Poker. The cost is $150 per day per student and the class size will be limited to 12 people. The instruction will take place at the DMS campus.
You can find more info here: <-- Hammer Here - GIClasses If you’re interested in taking some instruction from a world class instructor please consider taking the classes. They are not limited to DMS members and you’ll have to register at:
DMS will split the tuition and costs for this event. It will be a once in a lifetime opportunity to take blacksmithing from a world expert. You can find more about Mark Aspery here:
I signed up for one and cancelled the basket poker but I wanted to attend and observe and now it won’t let me register again as a free student. Can someone assist
DMS has tools (anvils, hammers, tongs, etc). No need to go buy those just for the class.
Hands-on portion will be outside.
Wear natural fabrics (synthetics melt). Closed-toe shoes (all leather boots are best). If you have long hair, a hat, bandana, or hair tie might be warranted. Have options depending on weather (long sleeves, jacket all natural fabrics. Shorts NOT recommended, even if Texas hot).
Dragons-breath from the forge, forgescale, and dropped steel can all singe/burn fabric, so don’t wear the good stuff (think yard work, not date night )
If you have a welding apron, consider bringing it. You likely won’t need gloves - we usually only use a glove when using a punch or chisel, not for general Blacksmithing.
A hat for the Sun.
Sunscreen.
Water to drink. Snacks?
A camp chair for sitting during demo/lecture.
Small notebook/pen/pencil for taking notes. I like taking step by step notes on right hand page and sketching on left side.
So, when it is October, you’ll notice a large room between the Machine Shop and the garage bay doors. That’s Blacksmithing. It will probably be easier to find when it’s full of blacksmiths…