Learn to forge a basic knife from an upcycled railroad spike in this beginner-friendly blacksmithing class. Choose one of our authentic, aged railroad spikes donated from all across America, from the Yukon Trail in Skagway, Alaska, to the Smokey Mountains in Tennessee. Ages 8-108+.
In order to have a safe and enjoyable day, please arrive wearing jeans and leather boots/shoes along with whatever cotton shirt is comfortable to safely participate. (If leather boots/shoes are not an option, please wear closed-toed shoes and we can provide leather spats to cover your shoes.) All other metalsmithing PPE is provided.
how BLACKSMITHING works
First, don proper PPE: safety glasses, flame-resistant sleeves, leather apron, leather gloves and hearing protection. Second, learn about blacksmithing tools like hammers and tongs. Next, help light a propane forge. Initially, rough-form your knife with Yuma’s only #powerhammer. Then spend the next hour hand hammering and shaping your blade. Next, learn about annealing and tempering steel with heat, sand and oil. Then use a grinder and files to sharpen your knife (if desired). Finally, temper and oil-quench your knife to achieve the hardness necessary for a blade. (At this point, only files, sandpaper and/or a sharpening stone are recommended to sharpen your knife; any electric tools will cause the steel to lose its temper (hardness/softness ratio).
KNIFE BLACKSMITHING details
- We have allotted six hours for this blacksmithing class, but time may vary according to ability and how far along you want to take this project. (If you choose to use this knife purely for decoration, the final steps will not be necessary.)
- All required metalsmithing PPE is provided.
- C.Y.O.RR.S. (Choose your own railroad spike from our collection or bring your own.)
- Class size: Maximum 8
- Children under the age of 12 need to register with an adult.
If you are a veteran or 1st responder and wish to receive our discount code, please reach out to us prior to registration.