Workshops

These are the dates for 2013 !

Dates-

• May 10, 11, and 12, 2013
• May 18, 2013
• June 21, 22, and 23, 2013
• July 13, 2013
• July 20, 2013
• July 27 and/or 28, 2013
• August 24 and/or 25, 2013
• September 6, 7 & 8, 2013
• October 18, 19, and 20, 2013

Instructor

Garry Kalajian was first exposed to blacksmithing in the early 1980s while teaching at an outdoor school. Later he became an apprentice, part-time employee, and all-around beneficiary of New Hampshire blacksmith David Court. Currently he operates Ararat Forge in Bradford, New Hampshire, where his work includes functional pieces of both historical and original design. www.araratforge.com

Schedule and Course Descriptions for 2013

May 10, 11, and 12, 2013- Beginning Blacksmithing

This workshop will cover all the basics of traditional coal-forge blacksmithing. Participants will learn forging operations, including lighting and managing a coal fire, basic metallurgy, tool making and forge welding.

May 18, 2013- Forge Welding

Preparing the perfect fire, achieving the perfect heat, and making the perfect weld.

July 13 and 20, 2013 – One-day “Bring Your Own” project.

Fee: $60.00 per day
3-5 people
9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Bring your own lunch
One week notice for registration

July 27 and/or 28, 2013 – Door Hardware

Making a Suffolk thumb latch set, including the bar, staple, and catch, and the necessary tooling.  If time permits, participants may pursue their interest in other pieces, including hinges and slide bolts.  (Choose to attend one or both days.)

August 24 and/or 25, 2013 – A Couple of Approaches to Tool Making

A lot of tools are needed to go beyond the basic shapes made with a hammer and anvil.  In the first of these two workshops, participants will be shown how to apply basic metal fabrication processes to the manufacture of tools necessary for shapes and special operations.  Examples include fullers, swages, and tools for offsetting bars.  The second will begin with an introduction to basic metallurgy followed by its application to forged tools such as curved, and straight chisels; punches for round holes, slits, and slots, and openers.  Participants in both are encouraged and will practice hardening and tempering oil and water hardening steel.  Come to both and combine what you’ve learned to make spring dies, scroll jigs, and other specialized tools.

September 6, 7, and 8, 2013 – Beginning Blacksmithing

Continued practice for novices and a good start for first-timers.  (See May 10-12 description for details.)

October 18, 19, and 20, 2013 – Beginning Blacksmithing

Whether you’re a novice or ready to hone techniques learned in earlier workshops, this one’s for you.

Typical Schedule for a Sanborn Mills Farm Blacksmithing Workshop:

Registration, Introductions and Orientation

Daily Schedule

• 7:00 Breakfast
• 8:00 Morning Session
• 12:00 Lunch
• 1:00 Afternoon Session
• 4:00 Free time
• 6:30 Dinner

During and following dinner, the instructor will answer questions and every one can share ideas and stories. You can even return to the shop if you have any strength left. Side trips to Ararat Forge and other places of local interest can be arranged if warranted.

There are no prerequisites for attending any of the blacksmithing workshops. However, learning blacksmithing skills is a linear progression and most easily accomplished in sequence. Each blacksmithing workshop is limited to five participants, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Please feel free to bring any tools you want. We provide ear protection and safety glasses and recommend that you bring clothes that can stand up to heat and comfortable shoes or boots. We recommend an apron.

Prices and Registration Information

You may register for Traditional Blacksmithing by sending a check for $125.00 one month before the workshop, made payable to:

Sanborn Mills Farm

7097 Sanborn Road

Loudon, NH 03307

The fee for blacksmithing workshops is $125 per day and includes all meals. Please let us know if you have any allergies or special meal requirements. Accommodations (bed and shared bath) are $40 per night. Please let us know if you want to stay on site. Alternatives include bringing your own camper or staying at a local hotel or B&B. (Please ask for a list.)

The balance of the workshop fee is payable at any time before orientation. Refunds can’t be made after two weeks before the workshop starting day. The tools and materials you will need are included in the workshop price. Additional materials will be available to purchase.