Beginner Level 1
Build your foundation at the forge.
Learn the essential movements of blacksmithing in a focused hands-on session designed for first-time participants.
Start with the core movements.
Build control at the anvil through guided exercises that introduce the techniques used throughout future blacksmithing projects.
Your workshop focus
Guided forging exercises
Practice moving, shaping and opening hot steel while learning safe forge, hammer and anvil habits.
Transferable blacksmithing skills.
These four techniques form a practical starting point for more advanced forge work.
Draw steel to a point
Control heat and hammer placement to lengthen and taper hot material.
Form a smooth curve
Shape an even scroll while maintaining clean proportions and control.
Add movement and texture
Prepare and twist a heated section of steel for a balanced decorative effect.
Create controlled openings
Use punches and drifts to open hot steel without removing material.
CURRENT WORKSHOP
DATES AND TIMES.
Mark teaches this single-session workshop. New dates and exact times will appear here when the next schedule is released.
Mark Reeves
Meet Mark.
Guidance at the forge
Mark Reeves introduces safe forge use, hammer control and the core techniques behind successful hand forging. The small class size leaves room for individual coaching as you build confidence.
Workshop details.
Beginner Level 1
No previous blacksmithing experience is required.
Age 16+
A parent or guardian must sign the waiver on the first day for participants under 18.
Your starting point
This course builds the foundation recommended before more advanced Blacksmithing workshops.
Location
NewMakeIt, 621 Timothy Street, Newmarket, Ontario.
Come workshop ready
Wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants made from natural fibres, plus closed-toe sturdy shoes, preferably leather. Secure long hair and avoid loose clothing or accessories. NewMakeIt provides the required safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection and other workshop PPE.
Ready to light the forge?
The next workshop date and time will appear in the booking calendar above when registration opens.
Please review our class cancellation policy before registering.