This one-day class starts with a healthy dose of blacksmithing safety and then progresses into hammer control exercises where you make several nails and then a hook. You will learn drawing out, hot punching, hardening, quenching, tapers, bending and finishing.

For any class you must wear natural fabric (cotton) long trousers and closed toe shoes (leather is best). Long sleeve natural fabric shirt is recommended as bare arms can get stung by scale on occasion. Other required safety gear is provided however if you have a leather apron you may want to bring it.

Age 12 and up, but if under 18 your parent or guardian must be present to sign a waiver (and maybe stay around to help as a striker). Call 850-974-1548 if you have any questions.

After the introduction class you can branch out to other classes enabling you to tackle various intermediate and advanced projects, something different is offered every week at Traditions Workshop – hardware, tool making, homeware items and, yes, knives.

Bring a snack in case the class runs long or you have questions after class.