Ages 16+ • 6 Hours • Max 5 People
Spend a focused day at the forge learning to make a pair of Flat Jaw tongs in Hillsborough, NC. Small classes, all tools provided, and a strong link to the Piedmont craft tradition make this a hands-on, skill-forward experience.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 Hours
Fitness Level
You should be able to stand and maneuver a hammer for long intervals and tolerate moderate heat; upper-body endurance helps.
Wildlife
History
Hillsborough is a Piedmont town with colonial-era roots and a long local tradition of practical crafts and small workshops.
Conservation
The workshop follows safe metal handling and waste practices; students are asked to respect local waterways and dispose of scale and fluids responsibly.
Ages 16+ • 6 Hours • Max 5 People
Dress for forge heat
Wear breathable layers and avoid synthetic fabrics—cotton or wool reduces risk of melting; you'll be next to an active forge for most of the day.
Bring a packed lunch
There is a midday picnic-table break; bring drinks and snacks to keep energy levels up between hands-on sessions.
Footwear & eye protection
Closed-toe leather or composite work boots and ANSI-rated safety glasses are required for safe operation around hot metal and sparks.
Book early and arrive on time
Class size is limited to five participants; arriving promptly ensures you get full instruction and maximum hammer time.
Leather welding gloves
Protects hands from heat and sharp scale during forging.
ANSI-rated safety glasses
Shields eyes from sparks and grinding particles.
Closed-toe work boots
Stable, protective footwear is necessary around anvils and hot metal.
Long-sleeve cotton shirt
Natural fibers reduce burn risk and protect forearms from sparks.