moderate
3–4 hours
Good basic physical condition recommended to stand for extended periods and handle tools.
Step into the heat and craft your own fire poker in this engaging blacksmithing workshop in Footscray, Victoria. Perfect for beginners, it combines hands-on learning with traditional methods for a truly unique outdoor artisan experience.
Ages 12+ • 3.5hrs • no experience required
Experience the art of blacksmithing in this hands-on workshop where you'll forge your very own fire poker. Guided by skilled tutors, you'll learn essential techniques using a traditional coke-fired forge. This unique opportunity not only equips you with practical skills but also ignites a passion for further exploration in blacksmithing.
3.5 hours
Introduction to basic blacksmithing techniques, using a coke fired forge, all necessary PPE provided.
After a short safety induction, participants will be allocated their own forging station and forge a fire poker under the guidance of experienced tutors. Once completed, the fire poker will be hot brushed and waxed and ready to be taken home.The class is an excellent starting point and hopefully, will inspire students to delve deeper and enrol in further courses.
Minimum age for students is 12 and under 15’s need to be accompanied by an adult, also enrolled in the course.
Protect your feet from hot sparks and heavy materials by wearing sturdy, closed-toe footwear.
Forging at high heat can be dehydrating; bring water and take breaks regularly.
Listen carefully to your tutor and follow safety protocols to avoid injury.
Wear cotton or wool to reduce risk of burns from sparks; avoid synthetics.
Footscray’s rich industrial past includes metalworking heritage that influences this workshop’s craft-focused experience.
The workshop emphasizes sustainable use of materials and environmentally responsible practices in the forge.
Protective footwear is necessary around the forge and metalwork area.
Cotton pants shield legs from sparks and hot metal debris.
A long-sleeve shirt provides added protection from sparks.
Stay hydrated during the physically demanding forging process.