Blacksmith Classes

Blacksmith Classes in Indiana

 

Brown County Forge Classes - Bloomington Indiana

Note from the Forge: For 9 years, Brown County Forge has offered in-person classes at the blacksmith shop in Bloomington, Indiana.

After teaching 1,523 students how to blacksmith, classes will no longer be available in 2025. It’s time for Terran Marks, the blacksmith and owner, to move on to other pursuits. 

Thanks for your interest and to all those who have taken a class over the years!

If you would like a recommendation for other places to learn traditional blacksmithing, please see the list below:

  • Ben Abbott Knife Making – Damascus knives
  • 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 information about the classes we taught from 2016 through 2024, continue reading.

BEGINNERS BLACKSMITHING CLASS – DISCONTINUED FOR 2025

Blacksmith Classes Indiana - Brown County Forge

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.

Beginner Blacksmithing Classes - Indiana - Brown County Forge
Fire pokers with twists.

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

Size:   1 – 4 people

Minimum Age:  14 years old (with parent or guardian present)

See what past students have to say about Brown County Forge on the Reviews Page.

KNIFE MAKING CLASS – DISCONTINUED FOR 2025

Blacksmithing Classes - Blade smithing Classes Indiana

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 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.

Brown County Forge - Blacksmithing Classes

CLASS DETAILS:

Duration:  4-hour Single session

Time:  1 – 5 PM

Size:   1 – 4 people

Minimum Age:  16 years old (with parent or guardian present)

See what past students have to say about Brown County Forge on the Reviews Page.

Legal Details and Age Requirements

    Accident Waiver and Release of Liability

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.

blacksmith c