Intermediate Blacksmithing

Two-hour session

Instructor
Jonathan Bernard

Biography
Jonathan Bernard began blacksmithing at the Eastern States Exposition in Springfield, MA where he volunteered from 2000-2013 in their Colonial-era smithing shop. In 2012 Jonathan purchased a portable forge and farrier's anvil, and began demonstrating at school programs as part of the 9th Mass Light Artillery, a Civil War reenactment unit. In 2014 he moved to the Rochester, New York, area and currently works with school groups as part of the 1st NY Light Artillery Civil War reenactment unit. For the past three years he’s been invited by the Gettysburg National Parks service to the Spangler Farm site for presentation of his craft with the unit’s traveling forge wagon.  Jonathan takes great joy in teaching blacksmithing to people of all ages and skill levels to ensure that the craft lives on.

Background
Students are encouraged (but by no means required) to research the fascinating history of metalsmithing. Feel free to start with this Popular Science article from January 1949 exploring the value of DIY metalwork.

Description
Intermediate blacksmithing explores the use of chisels and punches, and gives students the opportunity to impart their own artistic flare through decorative hammering. Students create a plant hanger with decorative leaf work or a hay penny scroll for ends. Students are required to have either taken the beginner class or have prior experience blacksmithing. There is a maximum of two students per session for increased one-on-one instruction. All tools and materials are included with registration. Students are recommended to bring their own safety glasses and wear a long sleeve shirt and jeans for protection.