SHARE:
Instructor Feature
John D. Harvey
Preserving the value of human skill and craftsmanship in an increasingly automated world
In 2014, while navigating the emotional strain of caring for aging parents, John found himself looking for an outlet—something physical, absorbing, and meaningful. One evening, he watched an episode of a BBC craft series featuring beginners learning blacksmithing. On a whim, he searched for a class nearby and discovered a weekend workshop at The Steel Yard. He signed up, stepped into the shop, and quickly discovered that shaping hot metal with hammer and anvil was exactly what he needed.
That first class sparked a deep commitment to the craft. John immersed himself in learning, eventually opening his own shop in East Providence at the start of the COVID pandemic. Today, he continues to run JDH Metalcraft, creating functional forged objects while sharing his knowledge with students.
Teaching was not part of John’s original plan. After several years of forging and demonstrating, he was encouraged to lead classes despite his initial hesitation. Now, after nearly a decade of teaching, he says his favorite thing to make is new blacksmiths.
April 2026 marks the twelve-year anniversary of John’s first blacksmithing class, and his work continues to evolve. What began as a hobby has grown into a dedicated side business, and he is now looking ahead to exploring more sculptural work. For John, blacksmithing is about more than shaping metal—it is about preserving the value of human skill and craftsmanship in an increasingly automated world.
Even if someone takes just one class for fun and never forges again, he believes the experience of transforming metal into something useful and worthy of pride stays with them. It is also what keeps him returning to the forge—and what keeps him teaching.
Forge Your Own Chopsticks May 2-3
Hand Forged Jewelry and Wearables September 19-20
Our Company | Contact Us | FAQs | Privacy Policy
Wooden Pitchfork
May 9-10
Eric Cannizzaro
In this two-day, hands-on workshop, students will learn traditional green woodworking techniques while crafting a sturdy three-pronged pitchfork—useful in the garden and beautiful enough to display. Using only hand tools, you’ll split material from the log, shape it at the shaving horse, and finish by steam bending and setting the final form.
A great introduction to green woodworking. Beginners welcome.
Fanbirds
May 8
Eric Cannizzaro
In this hands-on workshop, students will learn the classic cuts and tools used in the European fan bird carving tradition. Through demonstrations and guided practice, you’ll create sample pieces and complete at least one finished fan bird to take home.
A welcoming introduction to decorative woodcarving. Beginners welcome.
ONE SPOT LEFT!
Build a Basic Fly Rod
April 25-26
Jamie Eisenberg
Build your own custom fly rod in this two-day workshop with renowned guide Jamie Eisenberg. Students will assemble and finish a personalized 3, 5, or 8 wt. carbon fiber rod—learning thread wrapping, finishing techniques, and the history of fly rod making along the way. Registration closes April 10, so don’t miss your chance to craft a rod ready for the water.
Sanborn Mills Farm | 7097 Sanborn Road | Loudon, NH 03307 US