Blacksmithing Basics: Hooks & Hairpins

Get hands-on with metalworking at this three-hour introductory blacksmithing workshop. You'll learn foundational forging techniques and use traditional blacksmithing tools to shape hot steel into either a decorative hook or hairpin—both of which you'll take home as finished pieces. The workshop is led by Jared Ondovchik, a Rivers of Steel staff artist and bladesmith, and is capped at 16 participants, so advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended. Before you go, plan to wear clothes that can handle getting dirty and sturdy, closed-toe shoes—the workshop space is unheated and the grounds are uneven. The site offers portable restrooms and hand-washing stations but no food options. Handicapped parking and an ADA-compliant ramp to the workshop space are available; contact the venue if you have specific accessibility questions. Tickets are $90 per person.