January 07, 2024
Layered Pendant
Prerequisite: None. This is an introductory workshop Date: January 7, 2024 Time: 10 AM - 2 PM Location: Adam's ForgeAdam’s Forge is delighted to partner with Metal Artist Chloe Kono aka Chloeography in our first offering of a jewelry making workshop. Chloe holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from California State University Long Beach and has been creating metal art for over a decade. Her aesthetic ranges from clever, humorous, and whimsical, to luminous heirloom pieces.In this workshop, you’ll design and create a layered pendant with simple sheet metal fabrication! Students will learn about the basic jewelry making hand tools, the nature of non-ferrous metals, and foundational techniques including sawing, texturing, riveting, and finishing.If you have a design that you’d like to make, it should be approximately between 1 and 2 inches overall. Chloe will have designs on hand for you to try, or you can improvise on the day!Class fee includes raw materials and access to all tools and equipment needed to finish the project.Optional: Sterling Silver Sheet (3x3, 22g) is available for purchase if students would like an upgrade.Please note: the first week that registration for this workshop is open, spots may only be purchased by members. If you find you are unable to register, please check back after that first week has passed, or consider becoming a member of Adam’s Forge. All proceeds go towards supporting our amazing organization, and membership will bring you exclusive events and opportunities, along with a community of other blacksmiths!
January 07, 2024
Discovery Bottle Opener
Prerequisite: None. This is an introductory class Date: January 7, 2024 Time: 2 PM - 6 PM Location: Adam's Forge Be the envy of all at your next social gathering, while you crack open everyone’s beverages with your new handy-dandy bottle opener, made by your own two hands! The Bottle Opener workshop is perfect as either an introductory or a follow-up course, as it introduces techniques that are useful in a wide range of blacksmithing projects. You’ll learn how to work with slightly larger stock, and be introduced to the proper choice and use of tongs to hold the hot steel. You’ll use the vise and a twisting wrench for the handle, and practice tapering and turning scrolls as well. In forging the handle, you’ll learn about shaping a square rod into an octagon, or if you prefer, a round, tapered bar. Finally, you can apply a hot wax finish to protect your bottle opener. Don’t worry if that sounds intimidating, we promise that anyone can do it. Please note: the first week that registration for this workshop is open, spots may only be purchased by members. If you find you are unable to register, please check back after that first week has passed, or consider becoming a member of Adam’s Forge. All proceeds go towards supporting our amazing organization, and membership will bring you exclusive events and opportunities, along with a community of other blacksmiths!
January 07, 2024
Discovery Letter Opener
Prerequisite: None. This is an introductory workshop Date: January 7, 2024 Time: 9 AM - 1 PM Location: Adam's Forge Not just a useful tool, but also the first step to all of your bladesmithing dreams, our Letter Opener is a Discovery workshop as well as a prerequisite for all of our blade workshops. The Letter Opener workshop is perfect as either an introductory or a follow-up course, as it introduces techniques that are useful in a wide range of blacksmithing projects. You’ll learn how to work with slightly larger stock, and be introduced to the proper choice and use of tongs to hold the hot steel. You’ll use the vise and a twisting wrench for the handle, and practice tapering and turning scrolls as well. In forging the blade, you’ll learn about full-face and half-face hammer blows. Finally, you can apply a hot wax finish to protect your letter opener. Don’t be afraid if that sounds like a lot; we’ll be there every step of the way to make sure you master all the skills you need. Please note: the first week that registration for this workshop is open, spots may only be purchased by members. If you find you are unable to register, please check back after that first week has passed, or consider becoming a member of Adam’s Forge. All proceeds go towards supporting our amazing organization, and membership will bring you exclusive events and opportunities, along with a community of other blacksmiths!
January 05, 2024
Copper Foldforming
Prerequisite: None. This is an introductory class Recommended skill level: Any Date: January 5, 2024 Time: 10 AM - 4 PM Fee: $190 Location: Adam's Forge Join us for an exciting exploration of process driven art and craft. Adam's Forge President Heather McLarty and instructor Will Larranaga will be demonstrating and instructing students in this super fun workshop. Fold forming uses Origami techniques and adapts them to metal, allowing the smith to create three-dimensional structures that can be used in sculpture, jewelry and as added texture and interest in whatever project you want to make with sheet metal! With fold forming, you start with a technique and then see where it leads you! You may end up with a piece that completely surprises and delights you. You'll learn about annealing, pickling, work hardening, and the importance of planning the order of operations. We'll also cover heat patinas, offering a whole rainbow of color options. This workshop is guaranteed to broaden your horizons, so catch it while you can! Please note: the first week that registration for this workshop is open, spots may only be purchased by members. If you find you are unable to register, please check back after that first week has passed, or consider becoming a member of Adam’s Forge. All proceeds go towards supporting our amazing organization, and membership will bring you exclusive events and opportunities, along with a community of other blacksmiths!January 03, 2024
Discovery Chopsticks Workshop
Date: January 3, 2024 Time: 12 PM - 4 PM Location: Adam's Forge Prerequisites: None; this is an introductory workshop Our newest Discovery workshop is perfect for beginners and more experienced students alike. The project is simple, but leaves so much space for improvisation and creativity. If you want to see what you can really do, this is the workshop for you! Using 1/4” mild steel bar, our instructor will demonstrate tapering the stock to create a tool that balances neatly in your hand while in use. They’ll show you several different design options, from various twists to different punches you can use for texture as well as different types of finials. Then you’ll move on to the little chopstick rests. Here, you can really let your imagination lead the way! From traditionally simple and elegant shapes to wild and wacky and everything in between, you’ll be free to create your own custom set, or maybe more if you’re swift. These also make great hair sticks, perfect for your own use, or if there is a certain long-haired person in your life you wish to impress. Please note: the first week that registration for this workshop is open, spots may only be purchased by members. If you find you are unable to register, please check back after that first week has passed, or consider becoming a member of Adam’s Forge. All proceeds go towards supporting our amazing organization, and membership will bring you exclusive events and opportunities, along with a community of other blacksmiths!January 02, 2024
Open Forge
Prerequisite: Any Discovery Class and Adam's Forge Membership. Additionally, all attendees of Open Forge sessions must have successfully passed the Forge Safety class, which is free to members and available for sign-up on the class calendar. Can't add this workshop to your cart? You can join the Membership Program here Date: January 2, 2024 Time: 12 pm - 4 pm Location: Adam's Forge Not a class, but a swell time to get in the forge to do what you wanna do. You can bring your own material and work on your own project. This can be a chance to finish that piece you started or work out a technique you’ve been meaning to try. One of our intrepid instructors will be on hand for supervision and guidance, although these are not teaching workshops. Please note: these sessions are intended to support our students as they practice skills that are within their ability range. Please do not use our forge and tools to experiment with new techniques that are beyond your skill level. When in doubt, ask the instructor. As with all of our workshops, we require that students attending Open Forge sessions be at least 12 years old. A student who is not an adult (18 and older) will need to have a parent or guardian present at ALL times during the session. Thanks for thinking of safety first. Bring your own steel OR we have steel for sale at the forge: 1/4" square 3/8" square and round 1/2" square and round Sold by the foot sucker rod (higher carbon steel) sold in 7" sections and various high carbon steelsJanuary 14, 2024
Private Discovery Letter Opener Workshop
Prerequisite: None. This is an introductory workshop Date: January 14, 2024 Time: 4 PM - 8 PM Location: Adam's Forge The Letter Opener is a Discovery workshop as well as a prerequisite for all of our blade workshops. This project teaches techniques that are useful in a wide range of blacksmithing projects. You'll learn how to work with slightly larger stock, and be introduced to the proper choice and use of tongs to hold the hot steel. You'll use the vise and a twisting wrench for the handle, and practice tapering and turning scrolls as well. In forging the blade, you'll learn about full-face and half-face hammer blows. Finally, you can apply a hot wax finish to protect your letter opener.January 04, 2024
Private Damascus Steel Workshop
Date: January 4, 2024 Time: 10 PM - 5 PM Location: Adam's Forge In this private workshop, Adam's Forge lead instructor Dossain Valencia will guide you in each making a random-pattern Damascus billet using contrasting high carbon steels. You'll gain instruction in preparing the billets, forge welding, and working with the power hammers to draw them out. The process will be repeated several times to increase the number of layers. Finally, a preliminary etching will reveal the pattern, followed by a discussion of possible uses as well as tips on working with Damascus for future projects. This workshop will run for 7 hours with an hour meal break.December 17, 2023
Blown Glass Ornaments
Prerequisite: None. This is an introductory workshop Date: December 17, 2023 Time: 1 PM - 4 PM Location: Adam's ForgeIn this workshop, Adam’s Forge is pleased to partner with Glass Artist Cathi Milligan. For over 30 years, she has mastered techniques such as torch working, kiln forming, mosaic, enameling and glass blowing. Cathi is also the publisher of LA Art News, a Northeast Los Angeles based online publication devoted to promoting art and culture in all of Los Angeles. She also teaches glass and jewelry classes at Pacific Art Glass, The Los Angeles Makery, and has taught at Otis College of Art and Design.
This is your gateway to glass blowing. Fondly referred to as remedial glass blowing, it’s the easiest way to experience it. We make 5 ornaments from pre-made capsules, which we add color to before they’re heated up with a torch and blown. Good times for all. This class runs about three hours, and everything is provided for you.
Please note: All workshops are released for member-only early registration for one week before they're available for general registration. If you're unable to add this to your cart, you can wait for general release or join our membership program at any time!December 16, 2023
Ball pein hammer axe
Date: December 16, 2023 Time: 9 AM - 3 PM Location: Adam's Forge Instructor: Gary StandkeWhy recycle when you can upcycle? In this workshop, Adam’s Forge instructor Gary Standke will teach you how to turn a humble hammer into a fully functional axe.
Starting with a 24 oz ball peen hammer, the ball end will be forged into a hammer head and the other into the axe. To move much of this metal, we'll be using our new power hammers. Once the metal is roughed out with the power hammer, we'll work on understanding how a cross peen hammer moves metal where you want it.You’ll learn how to heat treat and temper the steel and sharpen the edge. Finally, you’ll reuse the handles which were on the hammers and fit them in the axe. Not only will you have a unique tool to bring home, but you’ll have learned a valuable skill that will enable you to modify inexpensive common tools into customized specialty tools.This class runs from 9:00am – 3:00pm with an hour meal break.
Prerequisite: Any Discovery class, plus 2 or 3 project classes. This class will require some stamina and determination, as you’ll be forging tool steel.
Please note: All workshops are released for member-only early registration for one week before they're available for general registration. If you're unable to add this class to your cart, you can wait for general release or join our membership program at any time!December 31, 2023
Discovery Letter Opener
Prerequisite: None. This is an introductory workshop Date: December 31, 2023 Time: 9 AM - 1 PM Location: Adam's Forge The Letter Opener is a Discovery workshop as well as a prerequisite for all of our blade workshops. This workshop introduces techniques that are useful in a wide range of blacksmithing projects. You'll learn how to work with slightly larger stock, and be introduced to the proper choice and use of tongs to hold the hot steel. You'll use the vise and a twisting wrench for the handle, and practice tapering and turning scrolls as well. In forging the blade, you'll learn about full-face and half-face hammer blows. Finally, you can apply a hot wax finish to protect your letter opener. Please note: All workshops are released for member-only early registration for one week before they're available for general registration. If you're unable to add this to your cart, you can wait for general release or join our membership program at any time!December 30, 2023
Discovery Magic Wands Class
Prerequisite: None. This is an introductory class. Date. December 30, 2023 Time: 4 PM - 8 PM Location: Adam's Forge Could you use more magic in your life? If so, this is the workshop for you! This super fun workshop is a great introduction to the forge and is suitable for more advanced students as well. In this workshop, students will be guided in forging their own magic wands from a 3/8" square bar. The instructor will demonstrate various design options, including different styles of twists and surface textures. And they'll assist students as they create their own magic. Once the wands are made, The instructor will show students how to add an optional magic orb (otherwise known as a marble) to the top of the wand for extra special power. Finally, they will go over finishing options. All materials will be provided. Please note: All workshops are released for member-only early registration for one week before they're available for general registration. If you're unable to add this class to your cart, you can wait for general release or join our membership program at any time!December 30, 2023
Iron Age Knife
Prerequisite: Any Discovery Class or Letter Opener class Date: December 30, 2023 Time: 9 AM - 3 PM Location: Adam's Forge In this workshop, Adam’s Forge instructor Kent Lulewich will help equip you for a Viking adventure by teaching you to make a small iron age knife. Not only is this an attractive tool, it’s also a pleasure to make, especially for those with little blacksmithing experience. One of the advantages of this design is that it’s a one-piece knife; you don’t have the extra work of creating and attaching a handle. This enables you to bring home a beautiful and functional finished product. In this workshop, you’ll practice moving metal to specific dimensions, tapering and turning the beautifully curved handle. You’ll also gain experience in learning to hold awkward shapes while striking them. Hint: using the right tongs helps! Please note: All workshops are released for member-only early registration for one week before they're available for general registration. If you're unable to add this class to your cart, you can wait for general release or join our membership program at any time!December 29, 2023
Kiridashi
Date: December 29, 2023 Time: 9 AM - 4 PM Location: Adam's Forge Instructor: Dossain ValenciaThe Kiridashi is the original Japanese utility knife that has historically been used by Samurai and peasants alike. It’s both light and strong, suitable for a variety of uses. If you’ve taken the Letter Opener Discovery class, this is a perfect follow up project to build your bladesmithing skills.
Here, you’ll practice precision forging, learn some of the important considerations in blade design and have a chance to try different texturing methods. This blade is made from tool steel, so you’ll be heat treating, grinding, polishing and hand sharpening as well.
Prerequisite: Letter Opener Discovery Class
This class runs from 9:00am – 4:00pm with an hour meal break.
Please note: All classes are released for member-only early registration for one week before they're available for general registration. If you're unable to add this class to your cart, you can wait for general release or join our membership program at any time!
December 28, 2023
Copper Bowl
Prerequisite: None; this is an introductory class. Date: December 28, 2023 Time: 10 AM - 4 PM Location: Adam's ForgeIn this workshop, you’ll make a copper bowl from scratch. Adam’s Forge instructor Will Larranaga will guide you through the layout, cutting and dressing of the copper blanks. He'll demonstrate sinking (forming) techniques using a variety of different methods. You'll be introduced to the concepts of work hardening, annealing, and planning your work so that the finished piece is rigid and strong. And he’ll demonstrate different tools and techniques to add texture to the work.You’ll go home with a new set of skills and one-of-a-kind bowl you can cherish forever. And it will be shiny too!We’ll provide all the tools and materials you need to complete your signature piece. However, if you have your own tools, feel free to bring them.This workshop runs for 6 hours with an hour meal break.Please note: All classes are released for member-only early registration for one week before they're available for general registration. If you're unable to add this class to your cart, you can wait for general release or join our membership program at any time!December 12, 2023
Forge Safety
Prerequisite: Any Discovery Class Please note, this class is required for all new Adam’s Forge members who wish to attend Open Forge sessions. Existing members must also take the class and have until December 31st, 2023 to successfully complete the class in order to attend Open Forge sessions. It is also required for any of our bladesmithing classes in which power tools are used. Please note: All workshops are released for member-only early registration for one week before they're available for general registration. If you're unable to add this to your cart, you can wait for general release or join our membership program at any time! Date: December 12, 2023 Time: 6 pm - 10 pm Location: Adam's ForgeThis workshop is designed to introduce you to the best practices for safely using our shop equipment with an emphasis on power tools. From the bandsaw, belt grinders, bench grinder & wire wheel to drill presses and how to safely shutdown the forges, our instructors will demonstrate proper use and guide you as you practice, learn, and finally demonstrate your ability to follow all the safety guidelines.
Once you sign up, you’ll then take a series of online tests, which you must pass with a minimum of 85% prior to the start of your class. Follow the online instructions to forward the test results to blacksmithclasses@gmail.com. The on-site class is 4-hours in length and the class size is limited to 4 people.
December 10, 2023
Discovery Letter Opener
Prerequisite: None. This is an introductory workshop Date: December 10, 2023 Time: 9 AM - 1 PM Location: Adam's Forge The Letter Opener is a Discovery workshop as well as a prerequisite for all of our blade workshops. This workshop introduces techniques that are useful in a wide range of blacksmithing projects. You'll learn how to work with slightly larger stock, and be introduced to the proper choice and use of tongs to hold the hot steel. You'll use the vise and a twisting wrench for the handle, and practice tapering and turning scrolls as well. In forging the blade, you'll learn about full-face and half-face hammer blows. Finally, you can apply a hot wax finish to protect your letter opener. Please note: All workshops are released for member-only early registration for one week before they're available for general registration. If you're unable to add this to your cart, you can wait for general release or join our membership program at any time!December 09, 2023
Discovery Bottle Opener
Prerequisite: None. This is an introductory class Date: December 9, 2023 Time: 4 PM - 8 PM Location: Adam's Forge The Bottle Opener is an introductory workshop as well as a great next step for students that have taken another of our Discovery workshops and want to continue to develop their blacksmithing skills. This workshop introduces techniques that are useful in a wide range of blacksmithing projects. You'll learn how to work with slightly larger stock, and be introduced to the proper choice and use of tongs to hold the hot steel. You'll use the vise and a twisting wrench for the handle, and practice tapering and turning scrolls as well. In forging the handle, you'll learn about shaping a square rod into an octagon, or if you prefer, a round, tapered bar. Finally, you can apply a hot wax finish to protect your bottle opener. Please note: All classes are released for member-only early registration for one week before they're available for general registration. If you're unable to add this class to your cart, you can wait for general release or join our membership program at any time!December 09, 2023
Blown Glass Ornaments
Prerequisite: None. This is an introductory workshop Date: December 9, 2023 Time: 1 PM - 4 PM Location: Adam's ForgeIn this workshop, Adam’s Forge is pleased to partner with Glass Artist Cathi Milligan. For over 30 years, she has mastered techniques such as torch working, kiln forming, mosaic, enameling and glass blowing. Cathi is also the publisher of LA Art News, a Northeast Los Angeles based online publication devoted to promoting art and culture in all of Los Angeles. She also teaches glass and jewelry classes at Pacific Art Glass, The Los Angeles Makery, and has taught at Otis College of Art and Design.
This is your gateway to glass blowing. Fondly referred to as remedial glass blowing, it’s the easiest way to experience it. We make 5 ornaments from pre-made capsules, which we add color to before they’re heated up with a torch and blown. Good times for all. This class runs about three hours, and everything is provided for you.
Please note: All workshops are released for member-only early registration for one week before they're available for general registration. If you're unable to add this to your cart, you can wait for general release or join our membership program at any time!December 09, 2023
Fire Poker
Prerequisite: Any Discovery Class Date: December 9, 2023 Time: 9 AM - 3 PM Location: Adam's Forge This is a CBA Level I class Are you interested in building your repertoire of fundamental blacksmithing skills and techniques? Then, this workshop is for you! In this workshop, students will learn to forge a fire poker. Trust us when we say that it's a pretty rad addition to your project line-up. Perfect for camping or if you have a fireplace or backyard fire-pit at home! The fire poker project class is specifically designed to introduce students to two fundamental blacksmithing techniques - forge welding and forging to dimension. Students will learn how to forge weld to create the poker end of the fire poker. Forge welding is the process of welding two pieces of metal together using heat and hammer and is an essential technique for when you need to join metal pieces together. It is a tricky process and our instructor will lead you through the process step-by-step to be able to successfully replicate the process on your own. In addition, students will learn to forge the handle of the fire poker to dimension. This is another essential skill and we'll teach you the tips and tricks necessary to be successful. This workshop is most appropriate for the advancing smith with an interest in building skills and technique. While it is not required, we have found that students who have taken at least 3-5 project classes with us before starting this project are more successful and get more out of this class. All students must have taken a Discovery class with us. The workshop runs from 9 am to 3 pm with a break for lunch. Instructor: Leif Bennett Please note: All workshops are released for member-only early registration for one week before they're available for general registration. If you're unable to add this to your cart, you can wait for general release or join our membership program at any time!December 07, 2023
Discovery Chopsticks Workshop
Date: December 7, 2023 Time: 6 PM - 10 PM Location: Adam's Forge Here's our newest Discovery workshop and also one for those more experienced students who want to build on their skills. While this project is a simple one, it’s also one that invites improvisation and experimentation. Using 1/4” mild steel bar, our instructor will demonstrate tapering the stock while checking as you go to create a tool that balances in your hand while in use. They’ll show several different design options, from various twists to different punches you can use for texture as well as different types of finials. Then you’ll move on to the little chopstick rests. Here, you can really let your imagination lead the way! From traditionally simple and elegant shapes to wild and whacky and everything in between, you’ll be free to create your own custom set, or maybe more if you’re swift. These also make great hair pins and gifts too! Prerequisite: None. This is an introductory workshop. It's suitable for beginners as well as more experienced smiths. Please note: All classes are released for member-only early registration for one week before they're available for general registration. If you're unable to add this class to your cart, you can wait for general release or join our membership program at any time!December 26, 2023
Forge Safety
Prerequisite: Any Discovery Class Please note, this class is required for all new Adam’s Forge members who wish to attend Open Forge sessions. Existing members must also take the class and have until December 31st, 2023 to successfully complete the class in order to attend Open Forge sessions. It is also required for any of our bladesmithing classes in which power tools are used. Can't add this workshop to your cart? You can join the Membership Program here Date: December 26, 2023 Time: 10 am - 2 pm Location: Adam's ForgeThis workshop is designed to introduce you to the best practices for safely using our shop equipment with an emphasis on power tools. From the bandsaw, belt grinders, bench grinder & wire wheel to drill presses and how to safely shutdown the forges, our instructors will demonstrate proper use and guide you as you practice, learn, and finally demonstrate your ability to follow all the safety guidelines.
Once you sign up, you’ll then take a series of online tests, which you must pass with a minimum of 85% prior to the start of your class. Follow the online instructions to forward the test results to blacksmithclasses@gmail.com. The on-site class is 4-hours in length and the class size is limited to 4 people.
December 24, 2023
Open Forge
Prerequisite: Any Discovery Class and Adam's Forge Membership Please note: Beginning on January 1, 2024, all attendees of Open Forge sessions must have successfully passed the Forge Safety class, which is free to members and available for sign-up on the class calendar. Can't add this workshop to your cart? You can join the Membership Program here Date: December 24, 2023 Time: 10 am - 2 pm Location: Adam's Forge Not a class, but a swell time to get in the forge to do what you wanna do. You can bring your own material and work on your own project. This can be a chance to finish that piece you started or work out a technique you’ve been meaning to try. One of our intrepid instructors will be on hand for supervision and guidance, although these are not teaching workshops. Please note: these sessions are intended to support our students as they practice skills that are within their ability range. Please do not use our forge and tools to experiment with new techniques that are beyond your skill level. When in doubt, ask the instructor. As with all of our workshops, we require that students attending Open Forge sessions be at least 12 years old. A student who is not an adult (18 and older) will need to have a parent or guardian present at ALL times during the session. Thanks for thinking of safety first. Bring your own steel OR we have steel for sale at the forge: 1/4" square 3/8" square and round 1/2" square and round Sold by the foot sucker rod (higher carbon steel) sold in 7" sections You must have taken at least one Discovery class from us and be familiar with working safely.December 23, 2023
Discovery Letter Opener
Prerequisite: None. This is an introductory workshop Date: December 23, 2023 Time: 4 PM - 8 PM Location: Adam's Forge The Letter Opener is a Discovery workshop as well as a prerequisite for all of our blade workshops. This workshop introduces techniques that are useful in a wide range of blacksmithing projects. You'll learn how to work with slightly larger stock, and be introduced to the proper choice and use of tongs to hold the hot steel. You'll use the vise and a twisting wrench for the handle, and practice tapering and turning scrolls as well. In forging the blade, you'll learn about full-face and half-face hammer blows. Finally, you can apply a hot wax finish to protect your letter opener. Please note: All workshops are released for member-only early registration for one week before they're available for general registration. If you're unable to add this to your cart, you can wait for general release or join our membership program at any time!