Introduction to Blacksmithing – WDM Corporate Office

Since 1988, the allure of fire in the forge and the mystery of shaping hot metal have drawn curious learners to explore this trade at the WDM. The WDM is committed to preserving both artifacts, the tools that prairie blacksmiths used, and the techniques of blacksmithing practiced by prairie ‘smiths and farmers. We have now taught over 100 Introduction to Blacksmithing courses.

“All 3 instructors were excellent. Very open & knowledgeable with a wealth of knowledge. You could not ask for a better workshop.” 2023 Course Participant

“This was an excellent course and the instructors really know how to bring people with a range of skills along. Fantastic job! Thanks.”  2015 Course Participant

Introduction to Blacksmithing is a weekend course. It takes place on Friday evening from 6:30 – 9:30 pm, Saturday from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm and Sunday from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm. The first evening is spent learning the history of blacksmithing as well as about the shop, tools and safety. Saturday and Sunday are a mix of instruction and hands-on work. Basic forging techniques, including flattening, squaring, splitting, bending and welding, are taught and practiced by making take-home projects. Each class is limited to 10 participants, so there are lots of opportunities to ask questions and get one-on-one assistance when needed.

NOTE: Participants must be 16 years of age or older at the time of the course. We also recommend that participants be in good physical condition as participants will be on their feet most of the time and there is a lot of hammer swinging.

“This was well run and organized. I would recommend this to anyone.” 2018 Course Participant

“Great job by all the instructors, they were great to work with. Each one had a great sense of humour which made it easier to work with. Very helpful & encouraging.” 2017 Course Participant

2023-2024 Courses

We will hold the course four times in the months ahead. Each class is limited to 10 participants, so there are lots of opportunities to ask questions and get one-on-one assistance when needed.

The registration fee is $525. WDM members and volunteers in good standing receive a discount. These registration fees include course materials, two lunch meals, as well as GST and PST.

Registration will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

To register, click the course you are interested in below:

• December 8 – 10, 2023 – FULL – Click here to put your name on the waitlist for this session

• Register for January 12 – 14, 2024 – FULL – Click here to put your name on the waitlist for this session

• Register for February 9 – 11, 2024 – FULL – Click here to put your name on the waitlist for this session

• Register for March 1 – 3, 2024  – FULL – Click here to be put on the waitlist for this session.

 

Notification List

NOTE: If you do not get a confirmation email, please check your junk / spam folder. Be sure to add us to your safe sender list so you won’t miss any emails from us!

 

For more information, please contact us at 1-306-934-1400 or email us.

“All the instructors were incredibly patient, helpful, knowledgeable and encouraging. The whole course from beginning to end was amazing. Thank you!!”
2023 Course Participant

“Absolutely exceeded my expectations – everyone was fantastic and really made me comfortable. Awesome time!!”
2016 Course Participant

More Blacksmithing

Early graduates of this course formed the Saskatchewan Blacksmith Association. Contact the SBA for coal, tools, experienced mentors, or a community of like-minded ‘smiths. The SBA also awards a Marlon Racz Memorial Scholarship annually to a student over the age of 16 who has an interest in taking a blacksmithing course.

 

Other Blacksmithing Courses

NOTE: The WDM does not endorse or recommend any of the courses listed below. We provide information and listings only which we hope are helpful to folks looking to learn about the craft of blacksmithing. If you know of a course not listed, please let us know.

• Mont Wilkins, Starlight Forge – Saskatoon – Introductory Blacksmithing
  starlightforgeinc@gmail.com
• Geordie Smith, Maple Syrup Forge – Ruddell, SK – Basic Blacksmithing
  maplesyrupforge@gmail.com
• Craig Campbell, forestART – Ness Creek – Introductory Blacksmithing
  https://discovernesscreek.com/forestart/
• Dusin Small, Small Bar Smithy – Craven – Traditional Blacksmithing Classes + Classes for Youth
  https://www.smallbarsmithy.com/
• NAIT – Edmonton, AB – Multiple courses, various levels
  https://www.nait.ca/coned/blacksmith-courses
• Cloverdale Forge, Matt Jenkins – Selkirk, MB – Multiple courses, various levels
  https://www.cloverdaleforge.com/site/