Blacksmith Classes in Indiana
Blacksmithing classes at Brown County Forge in 2026
We’re looking at offering traditional blacksmithing and hands-on knife making classes next year. If you’d like to be notified when those class options are available, please fill out the form below:
In a hurry? Here’s our recommendations for other places to learn traditional blacksmithing sooner than 2026, please see the list below:
- Ben Abbott Knife Making Course
- Coal School of Iron in Anderson, Indiana
- Conner Prairie in Fishers, Indiana
- Indiana Blacksmithing Association – This is Indiana’s nonprofit organization open to all who are interested in blacksmithing. Satellite groups have regular meetings around the state.
- For more information, go to: indianablacksmithing.org
For information about the class options, continue reading.
BEGINNERS BLACKSMITHING CLASS
In the Beginners Blacksmithing class, you will learn how to hand-forge a project using a forge, anvil, hammers, and tongs.
We will cover each of the 5 fundamental blacksmithing skills.
This class is great for getting used to the heat and hammerwork involved in blacksmithing.
Each student takes home the project they created.
The Beginners Blacksmithing class is great for:
- Anniversary Gifts
- Bachelor Parties
- Birthdays
- Father’s Day Gifts
- Retirement Gifts
CLASS DETAILS:
Duration: 2-hour Single session
Class Size: 2 people
Minimum Age: 14 years old (with parent or guardian present)
Price: $120 per person
See what past students have to say about Brown County Forge on the Reviews Page.
RAILROAD SPIKE KNIFE MAKING CLASS
In this knife making fundamentals class, you will go through the process of hand-forging a blade.
You’ll start with raw material (a high carbon railroad spike) and hammer out a knife you design.
Note: Beginners are welcome! You do not need past experience to take this class. Good hand-eye coordination, some tool knowledge, and arm strength will get the best results.
In class, you will learn:
- How to forge a spike knife from start to finish
- Heat treating processes
- Hand-sharpening techniques
- How to grind knife profiles
- Why and how to quench steel
- The purpose of tempering
Each student will complete the class with a knife they forged themselves.
CLASS DETAILS:
Duration: 4-hour Single session
Time: 1 – 5 PM
Class Size: 2 people
Minimum Age: 16 years old (with parent or guardian present)
Price: $240 per person
See what past students have to say about Brown County Forge on the Reviews Page.
TWO-DAY KNIFE MAKING INTENSIVE
Learn to make your own knife using power and hand tools.
Day 1: Working with the steel
We’ll start with high carbon steel. 1084 is typical, but we can use farrier’s rasps, hand files, as well as other items.
You will learn about profile shape and function–what makes a drop point different from a Bowie-style knife, for example.
You will grind the profile, grind and file the edge geometry, and heat treat it.
Day 2: Handling and finishing
The second day is all about attaching, sanding, and sealing the handle. You will have your choice of three wood types: two native types and an exotic wood.
You will leave Day 2 with the finished knife you designed and made.
[The photo above is a rasp knife with a rosewood handle.]
CLASS DETAILS:
Duration: Two, 4-hour afternoon sessions
Time: 1 – 5 PM each day
Size: 2 people
Minimum Age: 16 years old (with parent or guardian present)
Price: $480 per person
See what past students have to say about Brown County Forge on the Reviews Page.
Legal Details and Age Requirements
A signed accident and liability waiver is required before forging at the shop. Forms are provided when you arrive.
Age Limits
If you are under 18, you must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. They do not have to take the class with you, but they must stay on site.
Class Cancellation and Reschedule Policy
Please read the full Class Cancellation and Reschedule Policy.
If you have to reschedule a class, please do it at least 3 weeks before your class date. This allows me time to fill your spot(s) without negatively impacting fellow students and Brown County Forge.
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