Intro To Blacksmithing: Letter Opener

This class is an introduction to blacksmithing--no prior experience required! Students will work to make a letter opener out of mild steel. In the process, they will learn safety, basic blacksmithing techniques and tools, twisting, scrolling, drawing, filing, and finishing. Students are encouraged to bring water and a snack!

• Safety in the Metal Shop
• Blacksmithing Technique
• Blacksmithing Tools

Students who are comfortable in a high-heat environment for sustained periods of time, and are comfortable with loud noises. This class is best suited for ages 14 and older, any student under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

• A handmade letter opener upon completion of the course
• Stock, and all tools required for the class.
• Used shop safety glassed and hearing protection
• Access to A2's Metal Shop and tools for the duration of the session.

Must be 16 or older, no prior skills or knowledge.

Nico has been blacksmithing for 3 years, and used to volunteer as an instructor at Adam's Forge in Los Angeles. He's specialized in kitchen knives, but also likes experimenting with other forging techniques. Outside of the forge, Nico a mechanical engineer, and is an avid multi-material maker. He does woodworking, glassblowing, sewing, 3D printing, and neon tube bending. Some of his favorite projects are a sailboat made using stitch-and-glue technique, a large LED artwork for a festival, and an 1:1 scale aluminum banana made out of his-roommate's soda habit and a backyard forge. Nico enjoys teaching blacksmithing to improve access to this ancient skill.