Blacksmithing - Forge Your Skills in Fire & Steel

Learn traditional and modern blacksmithing techniques in our fully equipped forge. Taught by expert metalworkers, these classes are perfect for beginners and experienced smiths alike. 

Browse Blacksmithing classes below to learn more and sign up!

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Introduction to Blacksmithing

Blacksmithing Class
Level: Beginner / All Levels
Duration
Tuition
$225
Member Tuition
$192
Studio Fee
$25
More Info

Begin your blacksmithing journey in this six-week course where you’ll learn the fundamental principles of working with metal.

Perfect for beginners, this class will introduce you to blacksmithing materials, tools, and essential techniques like hammer control, material handling, tapering (narrowing the metal by hammering), twisting, cutting, and punching (creating holes in metal). These skills allow you to manipulate metal as a plastic material, meaning it can be shaped and molded when heated, offering endless creative possibilities. As you gain proficiency, you’ll start to design and create projects, building the skills needed to become self-directed in your own work. Whether you’re interested in traditional metalwork or contemporary designs, this class will expand your creative vocabulary and help you bring your ideas to life. If you’ve taken a Beginner’s Blacksmithing class before, this course will allow you to refine and continue building on those skills. Projects can be adjusted to your skill level, or you can choose from a variety of offered projects. Note: Priority will be given to beginners, but intermediate students will receive individualized guidance on refining their technique. Safety Note: This workshop is for ages 16+. If you require special accommodation for this workshop, please contact grant.benoit@craftalliance.org. Blacksmithing involves working with hot metal, so safety will be our top priority. All materials are included in your materials fee. All necessary safety gear will be provided, including safety glasses, gloves, and aprons. You must wear close-toed shoes, and natural fiber clothing and long hair must be tied back to ensure your safety while working with the forge.

Sessions

    Ages
    18+
    Dates
    Start: 4/13/2026
    End: 5/18/2026
    Time
    Monday
    6:00-9:00 PM
    Instructor
    Kim Stahl
    Status
    Open

Making A Cheeseknife

Blacksmithing Workshop
Level: Beginner / All Levels
Duration
1 Day
Tuition
76
Member Tuition
66
Studio Fee
25
More Info
Discover the art of blacksmithing in this hands-on, one-day workshop! Perfect for beginners, this class guides you through the process of crafting a custom cheese knife or letter opener from start to finish. You'll learn essential techniques such as flattening and spreading metal, basic heat treating, and applying food-safe finishes. No prior experience is needed, and all materials are provided. By the end of the workshop, you'll leave with a beautifully handcrafted and functional piece—perfect for your home or as a unique gift for holidays, birthdays, and special occasions! Safety Note: This workshop is for ages 16+. If you require special accommodation for this workshop, please contact grant.benoit@craftalliance.og. Blacksmithing involves working with hot metal, so safety will be our top priority. All materials are included in your materials fee.  All necessary safety gear will be provided, including safety glasses, gloves, and aprons. You must wear close-toed shoes, and natural fiber clothing and long hair must be tied back to ensure your safety while working with the forge.  

Sessions

    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 3/25/2026
    End: 3/25/2026
    Time
    Wednesday
    6:00 PM-9:00 PM
    Instructor
    Kim Stahl
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 4/8/2026
    End: 4/8/2026
    Time
    Wednesday
    6:00 PM-9:00 PM
    Instructor
    Kim Stahl
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 4/1/2026
    End: 4/1/2026
    Time
    Wednesday
    6:00 PM-9:00 PM
    Instructor
    Kim Stahl
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 5/5/2026
    End: 5/5/2026
    Time
    Tuesday
    6:00 PM-9:00 PM
    Instructor
    Kim Stahl
    Status
    Open

Making A Garden Tool

Blacksmithing Workshop
Level: Beginner / All Levels
Duration
1 Day
Tuition
76
Member Tuition
66
Studio Fee
25
More Info
In this one-day workshop, students will forge out a steel a garden tool. You will learn basic blacksmithing hammering techniques such as tapering and drawing material down, upsetting, drifting a hole, twisting, and riveting, all while you master the art of hammering consistently. Make the perfect gift for holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions. Blacksmithing is strenuous work. Not for the faint of heart. So please consider the following before signing up: -Not recommended for anyone not able to stand for long periods or have heart or respiratory conditions of any kind. -Looking into a forge is comparable to looking at the sun, so those with sensitivity to light and/or sensitive skin should also consider bringing your own extra safety gear. -During the 3-hour class you will use a 2lb 2oz/ 1000g  hammer.  *Blacksmithing is hammering* -All while your other hand holds tongs gripping your work firmly in a leather glove. *It does take some getting used to and blisters and callouses are not uncommon as a result.

*This class takes place outdoors and takes place weather permitting. Please be sure to hydrate before, during, and after class, as a hot forge tends to deplete our system of much-needed vitamins and nutrients. Eating well before class is a good idea as well and bringing in a light snack is encouraged. Wearing appropriate closed-toe shoes or work boots, along with pants and non-flammable work clothes, is a must. If you wear anything that might be dangerous to you or other students, you will be asked to change it. Double burner Propane forges and basic forging and safety equipment provided. Feel free to bring along any personal safety or forging equipment you might have as our Blacksmithing studio is new and growing.

Safety Note: This workshop is for ages 16+. If you require special accommodation for this workshop, please contact grant.benoit@craftalliance.og. Blacksmithing involves working with hot metal, so safety will be our top priority. All materials are included in your materials fee.  All necessary safety gear will be provided, including safety glasses, gloves, and aprons. You must wear close-toed shoes, and natural fiber clothing and long hair must be tied back to ensure your safety while working with the forge.  

Sessions

    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 3/18/2026
    End: 3/18/2026
    Time
    Wednesday
    6:00 PM-9:00 PM
    Instructor
    Kim Stahl
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 3/26/2026
    End: 3/26/2026
    Time
    Thursday
    6:00 PM-9:00 PM
    Instructor
    Kim Stahl
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 4/2/2026
    End: 4/2/2026
    Time
    Thursday
    6:00 PM-9:00 PM
    Instructor
    Kim Stahl
    Status
    Closed
    Date
    Time
    Status

Craft Alliance is a nonprofit art center dedicated to building community through craft.

5080 Delmar Blvd.

St. Louis, MO 63108

314.725.1177

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