Description
Enjoy a blacksmith/copper spoon making beginners experience day with me, Richard Hazell, at my forge in the heart of the Derwent Valley World Heritage Site in the rural historic town of Belper. Please note, minimum age 15 for safety reasons and under 18s will need an adult to be present for the entirety of the session. (No extra charge for the non-participating guardian). But please contact me via the 'message the tutor' button if you're thinking of an experience day for a youngster - we may be able to sort something out. Please wear sensible workshop clothing (avoid man-made fibres please) and appropriate footwear (e.g. stout boots). We will provide specific health & safety equipment where required. The day can be quite physical and the access route to the forging workshop has both steps and a narrow path so please do get in contact before booking if you are concerned about your ability to take part - strike while the iron is hot! The session starts with an introduction to the workshop, workshop safety and the tools. We begin by creating a copper bowl from the raw materials. You’ll be guided through the use of a number of specialist tools and equipment to create a hammered bowl to your liking. From then, we’ll forge the handle to the spoon utilising the coke forge and a variety of blacksmithing techniques. We’ll conclude with the assembly of the two parts and the finessing of the completed spoon. Morning session 10am – 12.30pm. Afternoon Session 1.30pm – 4pm.
What's included in the price?
All equipment and materials supplied.
Duration
2½ hours
Cancellation policy
Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts
Maker
I'm a one man operated blacksmith workshop with over 40 year engineering experience. My forge is situated in the rural historic town of Belper in the heart of the Derwent Valley World Heritage Site, Derbyshire.
Suitable for
- Adults
- Seniors
- Teenagers
- Hearing impaired
- Overseas Holiday
- Father's Day
- Suitable for beginners
- Fairs, festivals & exhibitions
- Romantic
- Mother's Day
- Christmas
- Pet lovers
- Easter
- UK Holiday
- Spooky
FAQs
No previous blacksmithing experience necessary. This course is suitable for absolute beginners as well as people who already come with hammer swinging skills.
Yes - Everything that you make on the session is yours to keep - and be proud of.
The Morning Session is from 10am - 12.30pm
The Afternoon Session is from 1.30pm – 4pm
Also - I am not too strict if we overrun slightly - you may need an extra 5 or 10 minutes to complete your masterpiece.
If it's the one to one you choose, it'll be me and you. If it's for a couple's event, you guessed it... it'll be me and you two only.
Please wear sensible workshop clothing (avoid man-made fibres please) and appropriate footwear (e.g. stout boots). I'll provide specific health & safety equipment where required.
The forge is outside but under cover so please bring appropriate warm/cool clothing. Things will warm up in the forge area through the day so layers will be best.
I'll provide safety glasses, a leather apron, hearing protection and gloves. You'll probably not need hearing protection and gloves but they are there should you feel the need.
I appreciate it's not always easy to turn up at a specific time - especially if you’re new to the are or the traffic is bad. I don’t want you to be hanging around outside if it’s cold and wet, but I do ask that you don’t turn up any more than around 10 minutes before the start time of your session - I may still be setting up and lighting the forge and not be ready for you yet.
There's plenty of on street parking within easy walking distance.
Yes you can, but there are a few restrictions:
Onlookers will not be allowed in the work area or to stay for a long time. They are welcome to stay for a bit for a drink of tea or coffee.
