• 

  Sandra K.

  Reviewed on 01/24/25

  This was a fun and interesting class! The instructor Jake was patient and knowledgeable and made sure everyone learned while having a good time. I highly recommend this class.

  This was a fun and interesting class! The instructor Jake was patient and knowledgeable and made sure everyone learned while having a good time. I highly recommend this class.
• 

  Nate T.

  Reviewed on 11/02/24

  My son and I had a great time doing this class together. It was the perfect amount of practical instruction and 'getting our hands dirty' trying out the techniques. We each went home with a basic 'knife' that we are proud of for first-timers :) It was a good experience that we will always remember, and I hope we make it back to Jake's shop again soon.

  My son and I had a great time doing this class together. It was the perfect amount of practical instruction and 'getting our hands dirty' trying out the techniques. We each went home with a basic 'knife' that we are proud of for first-timers :) It was a good experience that we will always remember, and I hope we make it back to Jake's shop again soon.
• 

  Edwin D.

  Reviewed on 05/18/24

  Great class. Fun and informative. Will have to do it again. Was able to take out whatever we made.

  Great class. Fun and informative. Will have to do it again. Was able to take out whatever we made.
• 

  Holly H.

  Reviewed on 05/11/24

  This was an excellent class for forging newbies! Jake was helpful and fun to work with. We learned a lot and had lots of hands on work. People interested in learning about forging should definitely attend!

  This was an excellent class for forging newbies! Jake was helpful and fun to work with. We learned a lot and had lots of hands on work. People interested in learning about forging should definitely attend!
• 

  Karyn L.

  Reviewed on 01/28/24

  This was a fun class! I was a bit intimidated, but Jake (the teacher) was very chill and helpful with directions. Each of us ended up going our own "direction" with the knives and it was cool to see the outcome!

  This was a fun class! I was a bit intimidated, but Jake (the teacher) was very chill and helpful with directions. Each of us ended up going our own "direction" with the knives and it was cool to see the outcome!
• 

  Taurean N.

  Reviewed on 09/27/23

  Jakes class was pretty chill, he goes over a brief history of different types of metals and question answering then he lets students begin forging. Its a bit tougher than I’d expected banging away at the metals but fun nonetheless. Walked away with a souvenir. Good time!

  Jakes class was pretty chill, he goes over a brief history of different types of metals and question answering then he lets students begin forging. Its a bit tougher than I’d expected banging away at the metals but fun nonetheless. Walked away with a souvenir. Good time!
• 

  Katherine C.

  Reviewed on 05/11/19

  This event was great!

  This event was great!
• 

  Salina P.

  Reviewed on 04/15/19

  I went to this class for my son. I was initially worried he would be the only kid. He was but he felt in no way weird about it. The teacher was very nice and helpful. It took my son a while to get in the groove and the teacher let him stay late to have some sort of a finished piece when he left. I highly recommend this class! It was pretty fun and my son has even mentioned wanting to go back.

  I went to this class for my son. I was initially worried he would be the only kid. He was but he felt in no way weird about it. The teacher was very nice and helpful. It took my son a while to get in the groove and the teacher let him stay late to have some sort of a finished piece when he left. I highly recommend this class! It was pretty fun and my son has even mentioned wanting to go back.
• 

  Jim F.

  Reviewed on 04/06/19

  This class was exactly what I wanted. An intro to forging with some explanation of the basics and a qualified teacher for questions and tips. The time went so quick and we got plenty of time using the forge and anvil. Everyone who wanted to left with a little piece of metal they had transformed. Worth it.

  This class was exactly what I wanted. An intro to forging with some explanation of the basics and a qualified teacher for questions and tips. The time went so quick and we got plenty of time using the forge and anvil. Everyone who wanted to left with a little piece of metal they had transformed. Worth it.
• 

  Katlin S.

  Reviewed on 02/11/19

  I bought this for my fiance and I to try for his birthday. He's been interested in taking a crack at forging and this was the perfect entry level class. The experience was very hands on and allowed us to dive in head first. There was a good flow to our group and we all got pretty equal time hammering away at the anvils. This class was laid back, so be ready to take charge of your own vision of what you want to create.

  I bought this for my fiance and I to try for his birthday. He's been interested in taking a crack at forging and this was the perfect entry level class. The experience was very hands on and allowed us to dive in head first. There was a good flow to our group and we all got pretty equal time hammering away at the anvils. This class was laid back, so be ready to take charge of your own vision of what you want to create.
• 

  Chelsea B.

  Reviewed on 02/10/19

  My boyfriend and I had a fantastic time! We learned so much and Jake was a great teacher. Highly recommend it!

  My boyfriend and I had a fantastic time! We learned so much and Jake was a great teacher. Highly recommend it!
• 

  A.J M.

  Reviewed on 01/11/19

  Fun night. Lots of useful information. Great teacher, highly recommend.

  Fun night. Lots of useful information. Great teacher, highly recommend.
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  Amy P.

  Reviewed on 12/29/18

  Great night of learning then practicing what we learned. Much hard than expected but so much fun.

  Great night of learning then practicing what we learned. Much hard than expected but so much fun.
• 

  Catherine C.

  Reviewed on 12/22/18

  This class was a great intro to how difficult it is to shape metal. You’ll get a chance to heat and pound metal and maybe end up with something that kinda looks like a tool/weapon. Regardless you will leave feeling like a bad ass.

  The instructor was super chill and welcomed all levels of knowledge and questions. If you go in the winter be prepared to be super cold- I don’t think the building has heat.

  This class was a great intro to how difficult it is to shape metal. You’ll get a chance to heat and pound metal and maybe end up with something that kinda looks like a tool/weapon. Regardless you will leave feeling like a bad ass.

  The instructor was super chill and welcomed all levels of knowledge and questions. If you go in the winter be prepared to be super cold- I don’t think the building has heat.
• 

  Gina C.

  Reviewed on 12/21/18

  What a great evening. This absolutely sparked my curiosity about forging and I certainly plan on learning more.

  What a great evening. This absolutely sparked my curiosity about forging and I certainly plan on learning more.
• 

  Sergei S.

  Reviewed on 08/04/18

  Great introduction class.
  You get to see blacksmith at work and pound hot iron yourself.

  Great introduction class.
  You get to see blacksmith at work and pound hot iron yourself.
• 

  Greg D.

  Reviewed on 07/28/18

  Excellent class that allows you to really get your hands into the concept of forging. The instructor was excellent and answered multiple questions throughout. Would absolutely recommend!

  Excellent class that allows you to really get your hands into the concept of forging. The instructor was excellent and answered multiple questions throughout. Would absolutely recommend!
• 

  Whitney M.

  Reviewed on 06/26/18

  I bought this class for my husband and I to see what the forging was all about. We watch the history channel show, so it was really interesting to see the process in real time. The teacher did a great job providing an overview of the process and let the group actually hammer on some metal and shape it. It was such a great experience!

  I bought this class for my husband and I to see what the forging was all about. We watch the history channel show, so it was really interesting to see the process in real time. The teacher did a great job providing an overview of the process and let the group actually hammer on some metal and shape it. It was such a great experience!
• 

  Karen V.

  Reviewed on 06/21/17

  This was a lot of fun. The class provides a lot of history and teaching about techniques, and then at the end the group each gets a few goes at hammering :)

  This was a lot of fun. The class provides a lot of history and teaching about techniques, and then at the end the group each gets a few goes at hammering :)
• 

  Brandon L.

  Reviewed on 06/21/17

  This was a fun introduction to forging! The first part consisted of an explanation of the process involved in forging, and during the second part we were able to heat and hammer pieces of rebar.

  This was a fun introduction to forging! The first part consisted of an explanation of the process involved in forging, and during the second part we were able to heat and hammer pieces of rebar.
• 

  Tobias G.

  Reviewed on 05/04/17

  i had fun in the class i attended and learned a few new things as well as started learning a new skill

  i had fun in the class i attended and learned a few new things as well as started learning a new skill
• 

  Michael H.

  Reviewed on 03/18/17

  I enjoyed the class very much. The instructor provided some basic info on metals, the tools and safety. Then we got down to business. Each of us got turns to work a piece of rebar, hammering it, twisting and bending it. A very good hands on intro.

  I enjoyed the class very much. The instructor provided some basic info on metals, the tools and safety. Then we got down to business. Each of us got turns to work a piece of rebar, hammering it, twisting and bending it. A very good hands on intro.
• 

  Caleb C.

  Reviewed on 03/13/17

  This was a great intro to forging, and I intend on taking more classes with this instructor.

  This was a great intro to forging, and I intend on taking more classes with this instructor.
• 

  Dirk D.

  Reviewed on 02/27/17

  Very fun, very relaxed but focused class on teaching how to make your own knife. This was a very good job and it was cool to see a finished product from an originally old rail tie!

  Very fun, very relaxed but focused class on teaching how to make your own knife. This was a very good job and it was cool to see a finished product from an originally old rail tie!
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  Hallie P.

  Reviewed on 02/26/17

  I learned a lot. Enjoyed it.

  I learned a lot. Enjoyed it.
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  Damien O.

  Reviewed on 01/09/17

  Great beginners class into forging! Teacher gave a good introduction into working with metals, the tools and shared some of the awesome swords other teachers have made. Was fun trying out the tools! I was secretly hoping to come out of the class with my own masterpiece but in reality it really was an intro class as it takes hours for beginners to make anything that could possibly resemble a knife or sword!

  Great beginners class into forging! Teacher gave a good introduction into working with metals, the tools and shared some of the awesome swords other teachers have made. Was fun trying out the tools! I was secretly hoping to come out of the class with my own masterpiece but in reality it really was an intro class as it takes hours for beginners to make anything that could possibly resemble a knife or sword!
• 

  Justin C.

  Reviewed on 07/13/16

  Interest in forging is what brought me to the class, but the instructor's understanding and teaching of the background metalurgy and process as both a science AND art is what made this class worth every penny. Definitely worth checking out.

  Interest in forging is what brought me to the class, but the instructor's understanding and teaching of the background metalurgy and process as both a science AND art is what made this class worth every penny. Definitely worth checking out.
• 

  Kylie K.

  Reviewed on 05/15/16

  Fun class. Great way to find out forging is something you want to do.

  Fun class. Great way to find out forging is something you want to do.
• 

  Carlos B.

  Reviewed on 04/26/16

  Sounds funny but I'm a Wedding Photographer who used to work with leather and now wants to dive on the blacksmith world.
  Maybe my compass is a little bit out of tune but I never get wrong or unhappy with my past decisions.
  And THE best last one was to sign for this Intro Class with Chris.

  Sounds funny but I'm a Wedding Photographer who used to work with leather and now wants to dive on the blacksmith world.
  Maybe my compass is a little bit out of tune but I never get wrong or unhappy with my past decisions.
  And THE best last one was to sign for this Intro Class with Chris.
• 

  Chelsea L.

  Reviewed on 04/25/16

  This was a great experience. For the price, you get a wonderful 2-hour class. I learned a ton, got to watch some cool demos and participate in the process myself. I would very much recommend this class.

  This was a great experience. For the price, you get a wonderful 2-hour class. I learned a ton, got to watch some cool demos and participate in the process myself. I would very much recommend this class.
• 

  Elizabeth S.

  Reviewed on 04/11/16

  Really fascinating class. I learned a lot about metalsmithing, hand-forging, and knife construction. The instructor was clearly passionate about his art, and that's always awesome to see.

  Really fascinating class. I learned a lot about metalsmithing, hand-forging, and knife construction. The instructor was clearly passionate about his art, and that's always awesome to see.
• 

  Kathleen M.

  Reviewed on 04/11/16

  We had a blast! Thanks a mil'

  We had a blast! Thanks a mil'
• 

  Donella D.

  Reviewed on 02/11/16

  Such a great experience! These guys know their stuff; we were super impressed at what they were able to condense into a 2 hour session. Even if blade forging isn't on your list of passions, you'll gain an amazing amount of respect for those who craft. I don't necessarily want to go out and forge a brand new set of knives for myself, but I plan on replacing all the garbage ones I have with pieces I know were made well. Highly recommend the class!

  Such a great experience! These guys know their stuff; we were super impressed at what they were able to condense into a 2 hour session. Even if blade forging isn't on your list of passions, you'll gain an amazing amount of respect for those who craft. I don't necessarily want to go out and forge a brand new set of knives for myself, but I plan on replacing all the garbage ones I have with pieces I know were made well. Highly recommend the class!
• 

  Jen R.

  Reviewed on 02/08/16

  This class was a blast. Chris, the instructor, has a tremendous amount of knowledge and a terrific passion for his art. Thoroughly enjoyed the class!

  This class was a blast. Chris, the instructor, has a tremendous amount of knowledge and a terrific passion for his art. Thoroughly enjoyed the class!
• 

  Jake B.

  Reviewed on 01/25/16

  Was a pretty good class. Chris got a lot of info crammed into those 3 hours. I would definitely recommend to others.

  Was a pretty good class. Chris got a lot of info crammed into those 3 hours. I would definitely recommend to others.
• 

  Seth L.

  Reviewed on 01/19/16

  We had a great time an learned a lot about a fascinating trade. Chris was an excellent and fun instructor and was able to answer all of our questions. I would definitely consider taking a longer class and would recommend it for others.

  We had a great time an learned a lot about a fascinating trade. Chris was an excellent and fun instructor and was able to answer all of our questions. I would definitely consider taking a longer class and would recommend it for others.
• 

  Zach H.

  Reviewed on 01/11/16

  The teacher is a wonderfully friendly fellow and interested in making his craft relevant to everybody taking it. The class itself was fun and informative - a great taste of what participating further might bring. What surprised me is that the teacher is a volunteer and that his organization is a non-profit. The people who teach this class really do so because it's what they love, and they think anybody with a desire to learn should be able to do so without spending thousands on art school.

  I think that's awesome. If I didn't live in Indianapolis (I took the class while visiting Chicago), I would most certainly return.

  The teacher is a wonderfully friendly fellow and interested in making his craft relevant to everybody taking it. The class itself was fun and informative - a great taste of what participating further might bring. What surprised me is that the teacher is a volunteer and that his organization is a non-profit. The people who teach this class really do so because it's what they love, and they think anybody with a desire to learn should be able to do so without spending thousands on art school.

  I think that's awesome. If I didn't live in Indianapolis (I took the class while visiting Chicago), I would most certainly return.
• 

  Alyssa S.

  Reviewed on 01/09/16

  Chris is really good at tailoring the class to what you really want to learn. It was awesome! Take this class; it seems to sell out pretty quick.

  Chris is really good at tailoring the class to what you really want to learn. It was awesome! Take this class; it seems to sell out pretty quick.
• 

  Jp M.

  Reviewed on 12/06/15

  Fun class. Lots of into to take in and gained new appreciation for the time and talent this art form takes.
  Hammering out a piece of piping hot metal on an anvil is pretty bad ass.

  Fun class. Lots of into to take in and gained new appreciation for the time and talent this art form takes.
  Hammering out a piece of piping hot metal on an anvil is pretty bad ass.
• 

  Jemal S.

  Reviewed on 11/06/15

  Such an amazing experience. Chris really knows his stuff. Lots of deep chemistry and metallurgy details and conversations about the craft and creativity. Hands on with hammers, anvils and 1600 degree metal.

  Such an amazing experience. Chris really knows his stuff. Lots of deep chemistry and metallurgy details and conversations about the craft and creativity. Hands on with hammers, anvils and 1600 degree metal.
• 

  Michael S.

  Reviewed on 10/16/15

  Chris, the instructor, is one of the most down-to-earth, likeable people I've had the pleasure of meeting. It's abundantly clear how excited he is to share his craft with newcomers, and his enthusiasm made an otherwise-dense lesson much easier to follow. There's a reason blacksmithing is a trade: it takes years of practice to develop the skills needed to shape metal and make it sexy. This class will totally change how you see that process, even when you read a few reviews alongside this one and think, "yeah, I think I have a decent grasp of what it's about" (hint: you don't. You couldn't. I didn't, either. It's okay—just take the class, it's worth it for that alone). Don't be intimidated by the learning, though; it's probably your first time in a workshop like this, and the class still caters to absolute beginners. Chris speaks from a place of great experience; I'm glad I did some introductory reading beforehand, as it helped me follow the terms he uses so fluidly. The lesson itself moves quickly, but the core concepts are easy to grasp. Even those who don't think they'd get into the craft should sign up—the raw experience of the forge and anvil is unforgettable.

  Chris, the instructor, is one of the most down-to-earth, likeable people I've had the pleasure of meeting. It's abundantly clear how excited he is to share his craft with newcomers, and his enthusiasm made an otherwise-dense lesson much easier to follow. There's a reason blacksmithing is a trade: it takes years of practice to develop the skills needed to shape metal and make it sexy. This class will totally change how you see that process, even when you read a few reviews alongside this one and think, "yeah, I think I have a decent grasp of what it's about" (hint: you don't. You couldn't. I didn't, either. It's okay—just take the class, it's worth it for that alone). Don't be intimidated by the learning, though; it's probably your first time in a workshop like this, and the class still caters to absolute beginners. Chris speaks from a place of great experience; I'm glad I did some introductory reading beforehand, as it helped me follow the terms he uses so fluidly. The lesson itself moves quickly, but the core concepts are easy to grasp. Even those who don't think they'd get into the craft should sign up—the raw experience of the forge and anvil is unforgettable.
• 

  Gregg C.

  Reviewed on 08/08/15

  Learned a lot about metallurgy, forging technique, the culture at FireArts Chicago, and the process of making a knife. I went in thinking I'd make a sword...I came out with the sure knowledge that if I took the longer class I'd be making a paring knife in the near term and an actual sword after 4+ years of study. Chris gave me a newfound respect for his art, and that alone was worth the price of admission.

  Learned a lot about metallurgy, forging technique, the culture at FireArts Chicago, and the process of making a knife. I went in thinking I'd make a sword...I came out with the sure knowledge that if I took the longer class I'd be making a paring knife in the near term and an actual sword after 4+ years of study. Chris gave me a newfound respect for his art, and that alone was worth the price of admission.
• 

  Kevin K.

  Reviewed on 07/27/15

  The teacher is a funny guy and the class was interesting. Definitely glad I did it, would consider taking other classes where you actually make a knife.

  One thing that was not listed is that you need to wear pants and closed toe shoes.

  The teacher is a funny guy and the class was interesting. Definitely glad I did it, would consider taking other classes where you actually make a knife.

  One thing that was not listed is that you need to wear pants and closed toe shoes.
• 

  Libby S.

  Reviewed on 07/12/15

  This class was a great intro to the art of knife and sword making. Chris really takes the time to make sure that you understand the amount of artistry that goes into any piece created by a metalsmith and is clearly very passionate about the subject, and as someone who enjoys learning from passionate people, this was a pretty ideal situation. There was only one other person in my class and this allowed for us to have hands on time to work with metal and to learn hammering techniques. After having the hammer and metal in my hands, I have a new appreciation for quality knives. You aren't going to leave this class with your own hand-forged knife, but you might just find your new passion!

  This class was a great intro to the art of knife and sword making. Chris really takes the time to make sure that you understand the amount of artistry that goes into any piece created by a metalsmith and is clearly very passionate about the subject, and as someone who enjoys learning from passionate people, this was a pretty ideal situation. There was only one other person in my class and this allowed for us to have hands on time to work with metal and to learn hammering techniques. After having the hammer and metal in my hands, I have a new appreciation for quality knives. You aren't going to leave this class with your own hand-forged knife, but you might just find your new passion!
• 

  Paul M.

  Reviewed on 07/11/15

  I was pretty pleased with the class. I got to learn a lot more about tempering and problems that may arise during the process, as well as different alloys and temperature differences for forging. It really wasn't so much work to get the hammering right once you get the right technique down. It was a lot of fun and really stoked my interest in the art.

  I was pretty pleased with the class. I got to learn a lot more about tempering and problems that may arise during the process, as well as different alloys and temperature differences for forging. It really wasn't so much work to get the hammering right once you get the right technique down. It was a lot of fun and really stoked my interest in the art.
• 

  D K.

  Reviewed on 07/06/15

  I've always been curious about metal forging, and this class was both informative and fun. We spent the first part of the class chatting about forging, looking at examples of GORGEOUS pieces that have been made by Chris (the teacher) and other folks in the space. Then we tried our hand at hammering metal and that was really incredible. Chris won't hover over you, but if you have questions or want to know if your form looks on point, ask him. You won't become a pro during class, but it should give you an awesome taste of what forgers do - and you'll have some cool pics and videos to show your friends!

  I've always been curious about metal forging, and this class was both informative and fun. We spent the first part of the class chatting about forging, looking at examples of GORGEOUS pieces that have been made by Chris (the teacher) and other folks in the space. Then we tried our hand at hammering metal and that was really incredible. Chris won't hover over you, but if you have questions or want to know if your form looks on point, ask him. You won't become a pro during class, but it should give you an awesome taste of what forgers do - and you'll have some cool pics and videos to show your friends!
• 

  Ariel T.

  Reviewed on 06/19/15

  Great experience in this class & learned a LOT. Really good workout, definitely come prepared to work up a sweat & get a little dirty. FireArts is a great collective of really hardworking, smart artisans.

  Great experience in this class & learned a LOT. Really good workout, definitely come prepared to work up a sweat & get a little dirty. FireArts is a great collective of really hardworking, smart artisans.
• 

  Caroline H.

  Reviewed on 06/06/15

  Great class! It was amazing to learn all of what goes on to making beautiful knives and swords and to see the process through the eyes of an expert. And we had so much fun practicing some of the basic techniques.

  Great class! It was amazing to learn all of what goes on to making beautiful knives and swords and to see the process through the eyes of an expert. And we had so much fun practicing some of the basic techniques.
• 

  Ariel M.

  Reviewed on 05/07/15

  it is a cheap class with a lot of information and some great hands on time with a hammer and anvil. Honestly it was amazing and made me want to become a blacksmith for the rest of my life.

  it is a cheap class with a lot of information and some great hands on time with a hammer and anvil. Honestly it was amazing and made me want to become a blacksmith for the rest of my life.
• 

  Kevin U.

  Reviewed on 04/04/15

  An enjoyable class, one which includes both a hands-on component and a theory component. It was an excellent introduction to forging.

  An enjoyable class, one which includes both a hands-on component and a theory component. It was an excellent introduction to forging.
• 

  Katherine S.

  Reviewed on 04/04/15

  This was a great intro class. Very informational and we got to get some hands on experience with forging the metal. Chris really knows his trade

  This was a great intro class. Very informational and we got to get some hands on experience with forging the metal. Chris really knows his trade
• 

  Matthew W.

  Reviewed on 03/28/15

  Chris is a master of his craft! He had so much to share about every detail of this art, and clearly loved every minute of sharing. Not only was the class wicked informative, but the hands on portion was rad, and I felt safe every step of the way. I would love taking this class again, would recommend it to anyone interested, and plan to follow up on more offerings from Chris and Fire Arts. So rad.

  Chris is a master of his craft! He had so much to share about every detail of this art, and clearly loved every minute of sharing. Not only was the class wicked informative, but the hands on portion was rad, and I felt safe every step of the way. I would love taking this class again, would recommend it to anyone interested, and plan to follow up on more offerings from Chris and Fire Arts. So rad.
• 

  Andrew H.

  Reviewed on 03/02/15

  Great instructor, hands-on examples, and got me very excited about continuing to learn more about blacksmithing.

  Great instructor, hands-on examples, and got me very excited about continuing to learn more about blacksmithing.
• 

  Ray S.

  Reviewed on 02/14/15

  Awesome class. Lots of great info and gets you a great feel it.

  Awesome class. Lots of great info and gets you a great feel it.
• 

  Linda M F.

  Reviewed on 02/01/15

  Chris is a world of knowledge about the basics of forging and beyond. He kept the class interesting and hands on....making us realize how much skill, effort and craftsmanship is needed to get a quality result!

  Chris is a world of knowledge about the basics of forging and beyond. He kept the class interesting and hands on....making us realize how much skill, effort and craftsmanship is needed to get a quality result!
• 

  Allison L.

  Reviewed on 01/11/15

  Chris was very personable and knowledgeable, obviously passionate about his craft. I never realized how difficult and complex the process is! This was a great overview of it all. You will not walk away with a knife from this class, but an understanding of whether you would like to pursue the activity more in-depth. All that being said, it is also a great upper body workout, too. My arms are kinda sore. Ha!

  Chris was very personable and knowledgeable, obviously passionate about his craft. I never realized how difficult and complex the process is! This was a great overview of it all. You will not walk away with a knife from this class, but an understanding of whether you would like to pursue the activity more in-depth. All that being said, it is also a great upper body workout, too. My arms are kinda sore. Ha!
• 

  David G.

  Reviewed on 01/11/15

  Chris was terrific! A great intro. Organized, fun, a little scary. A good group. Chris packed a lot in to the 2 ½ hours. Can I make a knife? No, but I understand how it happens. The feeling of the steel moving under the hammer was amazing.

  Chris was terrific! A great intro. Organized, fun, a little scary. A good group. Chris packed a lot in to the 2 ½ hours. Can I make a knife? No, but I understand how it happens. The feeling of the steel moving under the hammer was amazing.
• 

  Courtney P.

  Reviewed on 08/28/14

  It was an excellent class. Just the right amount of time to have an overview and to get hands on experience. The instructor, Chris, was patient and very knowledgable. You could tell he has a passion for this.

  It was an excellent class. Just the right amount of time to have an overview and to get hands on experience. The instructor, Chris, was patient and very knowledgable. You could tell he has a passion for this.
• 

  Preston K.

  Reviewed on 08/03/14

  Chris was very knowledgeable about metalsmithing, and answered every question that came up. He clearly enjoys teaching others about his passion. There was a lot of information, but also a long hands-on period where we each banged red-hot metal. Pretty cool! Note: It was assumed students would know we'd be in a hot/funky/dirty space. Dress appropriately. (I didn't.)

  Chris was very knowledgeable about metalsmithing, and answered every question that came up. He clearly enjoys teaching others about his passion. There was a lot of information, but also a long hands-on period where we each banged red-hot metal. Pretty cool! Note: It was assumed students would know we'd be in a hot/funky/dirty space. Dress appropriately. (I didn't.)
• 

  Jessica N.

  Reviewed on 07/18/14

  I absolutely loved this class! The instructor was so informative and I had a blast hammering the railroad spike! I'll definitely be back and will spread the word about this place!

  I absolutely loved this class! The instructor was so informative and I had a blast hammering the railroad spike! I'll definitely be back and will spread the word about this place!
• 

  La T.

  Reviewed on 07/02/14

  first, the instructor is supper hot! (meow!, sorry to objectify lol) I found "forging: swords and knives" to be a very inspiring. i knew very little about the topic and confronted my fear of knives and fire. the class covers chemistry, physics, and history of knife and sword metalworking. i found the the color and textures of transforming metal as a beautiful process.

  i left the class seriously continuing to learn and attempt to "forging" a knife. a few nights ago i was robbed at gunpoint in front of my house. i'm a pacifist therefore i view violence as a passive solution. Although knives are tool associated with violence (among overlooked utilitarian uses), attempting to make a knife could take my mind off the situation, motivate me to leave the house, and create an outlet for creative expression.

  Aside from my personal reasons, i highly recommend this class. it is very interesting and the instructor is very knowledgable and a passionate metalsmith.

  first, the instructor is supper hot! (meow!, sorry to objectify lol) I found "forging: swords and knives" to be a very inspiring. i knew very little about the topic and confronted my fear of knives and fire. the class covers chemistry, physics, and history of knife and sword metalworking. i found the the color and textures of transforming metal as a beautiful process.

  i left the class seriously continuing to learn and attempt to "forging" a knife. a few nights ago i was robbed at gunpoint in front of my house. i'm a pacifist therefore i view violence as a passive solution. Although knives are tool associated with violence (among overlooked utilitarian uses), attempting to make a knife could take my mind off the situation, motivate me to leave the house, and create an outlet for creative expression.

  Aside from my personal reasons, i highly recommend this class. it is very interesting and the instructor is very knowledgable and a passionate metalsmith.
• 

  Michael C.

  Reviewed on 06/28/14

  Chris is awesome! This class lasted about 2.5 hours and we got an introduction to the theory of bladesmithing, then everyone in the class had a couple of tries at hammering out some metal. Definitely a worthwhile experience!

  Chris is awesome! This class lasted about 2.5 hours and we got an introduction to the theory of bladesmithing, then everyone in the class had a couple of tries at hammering out some metal. Definitely a worthwhile experience!
• 

  Ben D.

  Reviewed on 06/28/14

  This class taught by Chris was extremely informative, educational, and fun. His knowledge of bladesmithing is extensive. If you have just an inkling of how knives and swords is made I strongly recommend you take this class.

  This class taught by Chris was extremely informative, educational, and fun. His knowledge of bladesmithing is extensive. If you have just an inkling of how knives and swords is made I strongly recommend you take this class.
• 

  Mark T.

  Reviewed on 04/28/14

  This class was awesome! Chris is extremely knowledgeable on the topic and a great presenter. He successfully blends a practical, efficient "modern" approach to swordmaking with aspects of the "old ways" like being attentive to the various colors of heated metal, the various sounds to listen for as the hammer hits the metal. Also - it is just plain amazing to pull molten metal from a forge and hit it with a hammer! Totally great class! thank you!

  This class was awesome! Chris is extremely knowledgeable on the topic and a great presenter. He successfully blends a practical, efficient "modern" approach to swordmaking with aspects of the "old ways" like being attentive to the various colors of heated metal, the various sounds to listen for as the hammer hits the metal. Also - it is just plain amazing to pull molten metal from a forge and hit it with a hammer! Totally great class! thank you!
• 

  Kabari H.

  Reviewed on 04/10/14

  Randomly went with a friend and had a great time! It was a fun, hands-on, experience that definitely got me interested in learning more.

  Randomly went with a friend and had a great time! It was a fun, hands-on, experience that definitely got me interested in learning more.
• 

  Eugene F.

  Reviewed on 03/29/14

  Fire, swords and great knowledge - What else can you ask for? We got the ability to try hammering metal and learned a lot about the fine art of knife making. Great intro class to see if you would be interested in this line of work as well as overall fun and educational experience on the complexities of knife making that we often take for granted.

  Fire, swords and great knowledge - What else can you ask for? We got the ability to try hammering metal and learned a lot about the fine art of knife making. Great intro class to see if you would be interested in this line of work as well as overall fun and educational experience on the complexities of knife making that we often take for granted.
• 

  Jessica H.

  Reviewed on 03/12/14

  I bought this for my boyfriend for our anniversary. He was excited to attend and upon taking the intro class, is now stoked to have a new hobby. He was thrilled. LOVED the class.

  I bought this for my boyfriend for our anniversary. He was excited to attend and upon taking the intro class, is now stoked to have a new hobby. He was thrilled. LOVED the class.
• 

  Joe R.

  Reviewed on 02/19/14

  I have been drawing knives and swords since I was a little kid. I've always imagined myself wielding some funky designed bladed weapons and this class really had me understand what it takes to make one. I am humbled with the craftsmanship it takes and the endurance you will need to be able to finish such blades. I feel that Chris and his mentors have a great thing going in this class and I hope to continue with it.

  I have been drawing knives and swords since I was a little kid. I've always imagined myself wielding some funky designed bladed weapons and this class really had me understand what it takes to make one. I am humbled with the craftsmanship it takes and the endurance you will need to be able to finish such blades. I feel that Chris and his mentors have a great thing going in this class and I hope to continue with it.
• 

  Christine F.

  Reviewed on 02/14/14

  This class was an amazing new experience for myself... how often do you get to pound and red hot steel with a giant hammer? Chris has clear expertise in his field, and more so, he truly enjoys sharing his skills with others. Definitely going to sign up for the longer session to make my own knife! Highly recommend!

  This class was an amazing new experience for myself... how often do you get to pound and red hot steel with a giant hammer? Chris has clear expertise in his field, and more so, he truly enjoys sharing his skills with others. Definitely going to sign up for the longer session to make my own knife! Highly recommend!
• 

  Matt B.

  Reviewed on 01/18/14

  I took the Intro to Forging class on a whim and was very pleased with the knowledge I took away from the class. I went from having no working knowledge of metallurgy or working with high carbon steel to a good amount of knowledge regarding the care, work and knowledge that goes into bladesmithing.

  I took the Intro to Forging class on a whim and was very pleased with the knowledge I took away from the class. I went from having no working knowledge of metallurgy or working with high carbon steel to a good amount of knowledge regarding the care, work and knowledge that goes into bladesmithing.
• 

  Douglas Y.

  Reviewed on 01/02/14

  This class was a great deal of fun. Chris gave a solid overview of blacksmithing and provided a good amount of hands-on time, certainly stoking a passion for blacksmithing!

  This class was a great deal of fun. Chris gave a solid overview of blacksmithing and provided a good amount of hands-on time, certainly stoking a passion for blacksmithing!
• 

  Kristen B.

  Reviewed on 12/23/13

  Great intro class! Chris was informative and kept things interesting.

  Great intro class! Chris was informative and kept things interesting.
• 

  Kayla D.

  Reviewed on 11/09/13

  A lot of fun very hands on. Chris was excellent. He makes you super excited to just be there. Very informative. I definately will be going back.

  A lot of fun very hands on. Chris was excellent. He makes you super excited to just be there. Very informative. I definately will be going back.
• 

  Bryce A.

  Reviewed on 11/05/13

  Great class, got to get hands on and Chris the teachers was really knowledgeable and enthusiastic.

  Great class, got to get hands on and Chris the teachers was really knowledgeable and enthusiastic.
• 

  Megan S.

  Reviewed on 11/02/13

  I had been wanting to learn the basics of forging for so long, and was so grateful to get such a strong understanding of the process through such a short class! The hands-on experience was great and the teacher was so knowledgable!

  I had been wanting to learn the basics of forging for so long, and was so grateful to get such a strong understanding of the process through such a short class! The hands-on experience was great and the teacher was so knowledgable!
• 

  Jason M.

  Reviewed on 10/03/13

  Great class! Hands on experiences with the tools and learned about the process of forging a variety of blades

  Great class! Hands on experiences with the tools and learned about the process of forging a variety of blades
• 

  Alan M.

  Reviewed on 09/30/13

  Chris was an excellent instructor. I found him to have an excellent knowledge base of bladesmithing. His presentation was well thought out and delivered. His style was comfortable and approachable.

  Chris was an excellent instructor. I found him to have an excellent knowledge base of bladesmithing. His presentation was well thought out and delivered. His style was comfortable and approachable.
• 

  Zak J.

  Reviewed on 09/29/13

  Knife making is a skill that takes years to learn and decades to master. In 2 hours, I got a little taste of what it takes to hand forge a knife. There are additional classes available at the studio the class is held, but this wasn't a high pressure selling situation.

  Knife making is a skill that takes years to learn and decades to master. In 2 hours, I got a little taste of what it takes to hand forge a knife. There are additional classes available at the studio the class is held, but this wasn't a high pressure selling situation.
• 

  Elizabeth A.

  Reviewed on 09/28/13

  This was a great way to try working with hot metal and a giant hammer. Chris was full of information and knowledge which he readily shared. Great learning experience and meet interesting people too. Thanks!

  This was a great way to try working with hot metal and a giant hammer. Chris was full of information and knowledge which he readily shared. Great learning experience and meet interesting people too. Thanks!
• 

  Steph L.

  Reviewed on 09/07/13

  I had a great time! I learned so much in just a short time

  I had a great time! I learned so much in just a short time
• 

  Frank M.

  Reviewed on 08/27/13

  Probably one of the best Dabble classes I have taken to date. Lots of hands-on experience and something I don't think you'd have the opportunity to try out anywhere else in the city. Just sign up already...you won't regret it.

  Probably one of the best Dabble classes I have taken to date. Lots of hands-on experience and something I don't think you'd have the opportunity to try out anywhere else in the city. Just sign up already...you won't regret it.
• 

  David S.

  Reviewed on 02/25/16

  Not what I was expecting

  Not what I was expecting
• 

  Stephanie S.

  Reviewed on 08/04/18

  The class was fun and really cool to be able to handle the tools and hot rebar. Very interesting. The class felt a little disorganized because there wasn’t an actual project for us to make. I know It’s an intro class but something small to handle during the class and take home would have made the price of the class more worth it.

  The class was fun and really cool to be able to handle the tools and hot rebar. Very interesting. The class felt a little disorganized because there wasn’t an actual project for us to make. I know It’s an intro class but something small to handle during the class and take home would have made the price of the class more worth it.
• 

  Jackie K.

  Reviewed on 03/31/18

  Class was a split of educational background and hands-on work. I would have preferred a bit more show and tell.

  Class was a split of educational background and hands-on work. I would have preferred a bit more show and tell.
• 

  Anthony E.

  Reviewed on 09/28/15

  This is great if you are interested in becoming a blacksmith and want to know everything that it entails. If you want to be lectured for a long time on tons of stuff you know nothing about, then go for it! If you are interested in going on a date with someone, this would not be an ideal first date. When not being lectured, you do get to try actually hammering and forging metal, which is dangerous, scary, and awesome. I really liked this part. I think the instructor was a cool guy, but not very skilled in teaching. Either that, or he was just testing to see who would become his apprentice. I have a much higher appreciation for this craft as a result, but I was frustrated by the abundance and overwhelming wealth of technical jargon thrown out to complete beginners as if it made any difference to us. If you're willing to put up with boring lecture, take a risk near really, really hot metal, and learn a lot of safety rules, then you can get a fun opportunity to try a small bite of blacksmithing!

  This is great if you are interested in becoming a blacksmith and want to know everything that it entails. If you want to be lectured for a long time on tons of stuff you know nothing about, then go for it! If you are interested in going on a date with someone, this would not be an ideal first date. When not being lectured, you do get to try actually hammering and forging metal, which is dangerous, scary, and awesome. I really liked this part. I think the instructor was a cool guy, but not very skilled in teaching. Either that, or he was just testing to see who would become his apprentice. I have a much higher appreciation for this craft as a result, but I was frustrated by the abundance and overwhelming wealth of technical jargon thrown out to complete beginners as if it made any difference to us. If you're willing to put up with boring lecture, take a risk near really, really hot metal, and learn a lot of safety rules, then you can get a fun opportunity to try a small bite of blacksmithing!
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