Hand Forge Basics

Wilkur Forge's Hand Forge Basics is an 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 these fundamental blacksmithing techniques.

Hand Forge Basics begins with points drawn from square and round bar. The bars are then twisted in various ways to explore the different effects each type of twist has on the steel. The next project is making tongs, a scriber and a punch, complete with heat treatment.

From here on, what is made will reflect what your particular interest in blacksmithing is, based on your application form information. This sees your experience at Wilkur Forge tailored, as far as practicable, to what you want to learn. 

No other forges offer this level of course customisation, which is just one aspect that sets the learning experience at Wikur Forge apart from the others.

If it is your interest, one of the tools made is a blacksmith's knife. You will learn how to forge the blade and integral handle from carbon bar, followed by annealing, finishing the rough blade and heat treatment by hardening and tempering. The knife is completed by hand sharpening. Wood chisels, gardening tools and sculptor's implements can be made instead, just to name a few alternatives to making a knife.

Course duration

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

Participants

Hand Forge Basics runs with two to six participants, giving everyone plenty of time to ask questions and learn.

Safety gear

Please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions for safety gear requirements.

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.