CBA Level 1 - Skills of a Blacksmith
“Spice” Level 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/6
Certify as a Blacksmith
Level 1 - Skills
Join us at Clay and Steel for an immersive experience in blacksmithing and tool making.
It is recommended that you take a starter blacksmith class before signing up for these classes but it is not required. Beware the spice level.
New students receive a membership to the CA Blacksmith Association when they sign up for a CBA class and discounts on future CBA classes. The California Blacksmith Association certification program was designed to teach the skills needed to become a blacksmith through a series of increasingly challenging projects. In the next scheduled Level 1 curriculum class you will you will learn to taper, punch, bend and twist steel to create a functional hook. In the afternoon we will forge a chisel out of spring steel. We will delve into the science of blacksmithing, this class provides a deep understanding of heat treatment and its crucial role in tool creation.
Get ready to work hard and stay focused - this class is designed to teach you blacksmithing fundamentals and build up your skills over time. We will be moving at a fast pace and completion of your project is not guaranteed. If you want close personal attention and a finished project at the end of class, please sign up for any other class. The goal of this class is to build skills rather than leave with a pretty project.
Youth 14+ permitted with a parental safety waiver. Part of the California Blacksmith Association curriculum and covered by CBA Insurance.
Book a Class
To book a class with Clay and Steel, enter the “quantity” of class slots (bringing a friend is recommended), scroll to the class date/time you want, then press Book.
If you’re hoping to “Squeeze one more person” in to a nearly sold out class, we can usually accommodate. Email for details.
Class Policies
Please wear all natural fabric/materials such as cotton jeans, t-shirts, wool or leather.
An ideal outfit is closed toed leather or cotton shoes w/rubber soles, a t-shirt (long sleeves OK), and jeans. Long hair should be tied up in a really cute way. Stud earrings are OK but larger earrings should be removed, the radiant heat can and will heat them! Aprons, goggles, and ear protection are provided.
DO NOT WEAR SYNTHETIC FIBERS. Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, nylon and spandex melt and stick to skin and feet when heated. Do not wear synthetic clothing or shoes when working with fire.
Clay and Steel is located at Seaport Studios in Richmond, CA. Seaport Studios is a very impressive shop and studio space filled with individually owned private art businesses. It is an active, working place made by artists and dreamers. Expect there to be fire, noise, welders, grinders, woodworkers, art cars, shop dogs and shop cats.
This smithy aims to feel like a safe place for all people. We love the differently abled. We are strong LGBTQ+ allies and treat fellow humans with respect.
How to prepare for class:
Read Preparing for Class and About Our Classes
