Learn the art of knife-making in a scenic outdoor-inspired setting with Waterside Metal Art Studio. Perfect for craft lovers and outdoor fans alike, this workshop offers a memorable hands-on experience.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate physical activity, mainly hand and arm work, suitable for most fitness levels
Wildlife
History
The studio has been practicing traditional blacksmithing methods since 1995, blending outdoor inspiration with craft innovation.
Conservation
Participating in this workshop promotes appreciation for sustainable craftsmanship and reduces reliance on mass-produced tools.
Waterside Metal Art Studio
Learn the art of knife-making in a scenic outdoor-inspired setting with Waterside Metal Art Studio. Perfect for craft lovers and outdoor fans alike, this workshop offers a memorable hands-on experience.
Waterside Metal Art Studio in Footscray, Victoria, is a dedicated metalworking school offering hands‑on workshops and multi‑week courses for beginners and developing smiths. The studio focuses on practical skills in knife‑making and traditional blacksmithing, using coke‑fired forges and high carbon steels that participants shape with hammer, anvil and heat. Instructors named in the studio’s program include Tobi Bockholt (knife workshops), Robbie Alderson (beginner knife forging) and Halcyon Window (San Mai knifemaking), who guide small groups through structured, safety‑focused sessions.
Course formats range from short two‑hour introductions and themed 2.5–3.5 hour craft workshops — such as Forge A Rose and Forge a Magic Mushroom — to immersive offerings like an eight‑hour Kitchen Utility Knife workshop and three‑day San Mai knife courses. Multi‑week modules provide progressive learning with take‑home projects after each session, while members‑only forging sessions offer studio access for ongoing practice. Participants consistently leave with completed items — from functional utility knives and chef’s blades to decorative fire pokers and forged keepsakes.
Safety, tool proficiency and material understanding are central to each experience. The studio’s scheduling accommodates single sessions, couple‑friendly workshops and structured modules that build core blacksmithing techniques such as splitting and forge welding. Waterside Metal Art Studio positions itself as a practical, skills‑based learning environment for anyone seeking tangible results from metalwork classes in Footscray.
Location
Footscray, Victoria
Studio based in Melbourne’s inner west
Course Lengths
2 hrs–4 weeks
Short workshops to multi‑week modules
Lead Tutors
Tobi • Robbie • Halcyon
Named instructors guide sessions
Workshops Offered
11 experiences
Knife‑making, forging and member sessions
Reserve a spot in a beginner class, multi‑week module or specialty knife course today and walk away with a finished blade or forged keepsake.
Arrive Early to Maximize Your Day
Getting to the workshop early ensures you have enough time to complete all forging steps without rushing.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Dress in durable, long-sleeved clothing to protect against sparks and hot metal splashes.
Bring a Notebook
Note down techniques and tips from your instructor for future projects.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water to stay refreshed during the 8-hour workshop, especially in warmer weather.
Work Apron
Protects your clothing from sparks and hot materials during forging.
Closed-toe Shoes
Provides safety and protection in the workshop environment.
Leather Gloves
Optional but helpful for handling sharp or hot materials.
Notebook and Pen
Ideal for jotting down techniques and tips.