• Closed-toe shoes (leather is strongly recommended)

• Long pants (jeans or work pants are ideal)

• Natural fiber outer layers only (cotton, wool, or leather)

• Layers appropriate for the weather (classes may be outdoors)

• You may bring your own apron if you have one, but it is not required.

Do NOT Wear:

• Synthetic outer layers (polyester, nylon, spandex, athletic wear, etc.)

• Shorts

• Open-toe shoes or sandals

• Water. At least 1-2L per person

• Snacks if desired

• Hair tie for long hair

All tools, materials, and safety equipment will be provided. You are welcome to bring your own safety glasses if you prefer.

Heat

The forge, and your steel will reach temperatures over 2000 Fahrenheit- it will glow brightly, and radiate significant heat. This is instant burn territory. 

Do Not Touch.

Sparks

There will be sparks of sorts. Hot steel develops something called scale on the outside, which has a habit of flying off when we hit it. These are capable of small burns to exposed skin. (Wear sleeves)

Noise

The noise can be loud- if you or anyone in your group (including pets) are sensitive to sound, please plan accordingly. 

Physically Demanding Work

Blacksmiths of legend were not weak for a reason- Blacksmithing can be hot, repetitive, tiring, physical labor.

Standing for extended periods- while you may have a chair, expect to be on your feet most of the time.

1. Remove Forge Scale with Vinegar

What you need:

• White vinegar

• Plastic or glass container

• Scotch-Brite pad, Wire Brush, or fine steel wool

• Clean water

• Paper towels or a clean rag
  
  

1. Place the steel in a container of white vinegar. Make sure the whole thing is submerged.

2. Let it soak for several hours to overnight. Heavily scaled pieces may need up to 24 hours at a time.

3. Remove the piece and scrub away the loosened scale.
   This makes a mess, may temporarily stain skin, and can permanently stain a sink.  

4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Keep scrubbing.

5. If there is more scale, repeat steps 1-4 until you are satisfied with the result.

6. When all the scale is removed, dry immediately and completely. Bare steel can begin rusting surprisingly quickly after being rinsed, often within minutes. Move directly to protecting the steel.

2. Protect the Steel

Apply a light coat of mineral oil, olive oil, linseed oil, or another appropriate metal-protective oil with a clean rag. Wipe off excess oil so the surface is protected but not dripping.

Reapply the protective coating periodically, especially if the piece is handled frequently or exposed to moisture.

Optional: Burn-In Finish

For some forged pieces, you can create a more durable oil finish by burning the oil/wax onto the steel.

1. After cleaning and drying the piece, warm the steel gradually to about 350-400 F.

2. Apply a very thin coat of an appropriate oil/wax.

3. Continue heating until the oil begins to smoke.

4. Allow the piece to cool and repeat with another very thin coat if desired.

TLDR:

Vinegar → Scrub → Rinse → Dry immediately → Oil or wax → Enjoy your work.

⚠️ Safety Warnings

• Dispose of oily rags safely. Do not leave oil-soaked rags balled up, as they can heat up and spontaneously combust. Lay them flat to dry in a safe location or place them in an approved oily-rag container. Seriously. Look it up.

• Never apply oil to steel that is hot enough to ignite it.

• Oil heated to smoking temperatures can produce irritating or harmful fumes and can ignite. Keep the area well ventilated.