Starting with Blacksmithing: Online Classes for the Absolute Beginner

Blacksmithing has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years as more people discover the joys of this traditional craft. There’s something immensely satisfying about taking a simple piece of metal and transforming it into a functional tool or beautiful work of art through the application of heat and force.

If you’re new to blacksmithing and looking for a place to start learning the basics, online classes offer a flexible and affordable option. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll look at the benefits of learning blacksmithing online, provide tips for choosing the right online course, and recommend some of the best online blacksmithing classes for absolute beginners.

Why Learn Blacksmithing Online?

Online courses and tutorials offer some unique advantages for learning a hands-on skill like blacksmithing:

  • Convenience: You can access lessons anywhere and anytime you want, fitting learning around your own schedule. No need to commute to a physical class.
  • Self-Paced Learning: You can go through the material at your own pace, rewatching lessons and spending more time on tricky techniques.
  • Broader Selection: Online platforms like Skillshare have courses from blacksmiths around the world, letting you learn diverse techniques.
  • Cost-Effective: Online classes are generally more affordable than in-person workshops or classes. Many platforms offer free trials so you can test them out.
  • Community: Some online courses feature discussion forums where you can get feedback, ask questions, and connect with fellow learners.

While online learning has advantages, hands-on practice is still crucial for developing blacksmithing skills. You’ll need to set up your own basic home forge and tools to apply what you learn online.

Some online courses provide equipment lists and forge construction guides to help get you started.

Choosing the Best Blacksmithing Course for Beginners

With more craftspeople and blacksmithing instructors offering online tutorials and classes, there are lots of options to choose from. Here are some key things to look for in picking the right beginner blacksmithing course:

  • Instructor credibility: Look for courses taught by experienced blacksmiths with a teaching background. Check reviews to see what past students have said.
  • Comprehensive curriculum: A good beginner course should cover essential topics like setting up a forge, safety, basic blacksmithing tools, hammer techniques, and introductory projects. Make sure it provides a solid foundation.
  • High-quality video: Clear video and audio will make learning techniques easier, especially if you’re new to the terminology. Look for courses with multiple camera angles on the forge and close-ups of the instructor’s movements.
  • Supportive learning environment: The instructor’s teaching style should be encouraging and geared towards true beginners. Look for courses that offer Q&A forums or ways to get feedback.
  • Simple projects: Starting with basic projects like hooks, pokers, and tongs will build skills incrementally before moving to more complex work. Projects should match the course level.
  • Affordable pricing: As a beginner, you’ll want to keep the cost reasonable until you know blacksmithing is a craft you want to seriously pursue long-term.

Using the criteria above will help you evaluate courses and determine which one offers the best introduction to blacksmithing fundamentals.

Recommended Online Blacksmithing Classes for Beginners

Here are some of the top-rated online blacksmithing classes for absolute beginners:

Blacksmith Beginnings: Lesson 1 on skillshare.com

Key Features:

  • Introduction to basic blacksmithing techniques.
  • Comprehensive lessons on safety, bending, tapering, and more.
  • Hands-on project: Crafting an “S” hook.
  • Taught by Ron Payne, an experienced blacksmith and crafter.
  • Positive reviews from students, highlighting the clarity of instruction and engaging teaching style.

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Blacksmith Beginnings: Lesson 2 on skillshare.com

Key Features:

  • Advanced techniques in blacksmithing.
  • Craft a bending fork, a foundational tool for blacksmiths.
  • Lessons on right-angle bending, drilling steel, and forging on different surfaces.
  • Taught by Ron Payne, a seasoned blacksmith and crafter.
  • Positive feedback from students, emphasizing the practicality and depth of the course

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How to Start Blacksmithing! on beginblacksmithing.com

Key Features:

  • Comprehensive introduction to blacksmithing.
  • Learn to set up your own anvil, forge, and tools.
  • Taught by Alec Steele, a well-known figure in the blacksmithing community.
  • Cost: 29-299 USD depending on what class you choose.

 

Learning the Basics of Blacksmithing Online

While blacksmithing relies heavily on hands-on learning, online courses offer a flexible and lower cost way to start building foundational skills at your own pace. Following expert blacksmithing instructors through well-structured video lessons makes concepts easier to grasp and gives you a support system for feedback and questions.

Starting with an online intro course helps ensure you pick up proper technique and safety measures before getting into hands-on practice. Building your own basic forge and acquiring some starter tools will let you apply the techniques you learn through online lessons.

Though there are initial setup costs, blacksmithing can become an incredibly rewarding and satisfying hobby. The skills learned through online courses will equip you to progress from simple projects to more advanced techniques.

Blacksmithing’s blend of artistry, functionality and hands-on creativity makes it a hobby that can last a lifetime. Approach it step-by-step, building a solid base through online beginner courses. Learning good habits early on will put you on the path towards mastery. So spark that interest into a real skill by firing up a top-rated introductory blacksmithing course today!