Hand Forge Basics

Hand Forge Basics is Wilkur Forge's introductory hand forging course.

In Hand Forge Basics a solid introduction to the fundamentals of blacksmithing is the primary focus.     

An ideal gift when given as a present. Please refer to Purchase a Course for details.

Suited to

Those starting out who wish to begin developing their hand forging knowledge.

People having trouble sourcing specialist tools who want to know if they can make their own.

Skill prerequisites

None.

Hand Forge Basics covers

In Hand Forge Basics we begin by lighting the coke forge and learn about forge fire management, as these skills are crucial to a successful day's forging. The relative location of tools, such as the anvil and forge plus the overall set out of a forging space, is discussed. Techniques such as drawing out, upsetting, bending and twisting are explained and demonstrated before you are encouraged to experience using these fundamental blacksmithing techniques.

Forging begins with drawing out points on square and round bar. The bars are twisted in various ways to explore the different effects each type of twist has on the steel. The ends of bar sections are hammered into different types of features and these bars are then curved into scrolls. These parts are used to create a decorative grill. Traditional blacksmithing joinery techniques are used to assemble the parts. You take the grill home, along with all the tooling you make along the way, to help with your future projects.

Course duration

Running over three consecutive eight-hour days, Wilkur Forge Hand Forge Basics courses are scheduled as per the Wilkur Forge Course Calendar.

Workshop facilities

Hand Forge Basics runs with two to six participants and each has their own coke forge, anvil and hand tools. Other tools are used in co-operation with fellow participants. There is plenty of room to move and time to ask questions and learn.

Safety gear

You need to provide your own safety glasses and hearing protection. Long cotton drill pants and a long-sleeved cotton drill shirt are required apparel for attending our courses. Leather safety boots must be worn. Wilkur Forge will provide a leather apron for use when required during the course or you may bring your own.   

Note - synthetic or baggy clothes and non-safety footwear are NOT acceptable apparel to attend Wilkur Forge's courses in due to safety considerations.

Hand Forge Basics three-day course cost

$1,050.00 including 10% GST per person.

Please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions page for further information. 

Further learning with Wilkur Forge

Wilkur Forge's following Hand Forge Intermediate course builds on your forging experience and knowledge.