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Shape metal with hammer, anvil, and forge.

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What to bring/wear, refund policy, waitlists, age requirements, gift certificate redemption, and more.

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What kinds of sensory impact to expect in a particular type of class. 


Click on the class name to see all meeting dates, times, and fees. 

Current & Upcoming classes

  • Blacksmithing Project Shop: Pizza Rocker

    • Tue, August 25, 2026
    • Tue, September 08, 2026
    • 3 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Combine your love of food with forging in this introductory blacksmithing workshop! You'll learn and practice basic blacksmithing processes while making a pizzeria-style curved pizza rocker with two handles, ideal for your pizza slicing needs. We'll start by covering safety in the smithy and then move on to manipulating metal with heat and hammer. Your pizza rocker will include twists, bends, and an edge bevel.

    Open to beginners, but this is a project that requires a significant amount of heavy hammering, so you'll be more successful if you have some blacksmithing experience.

    At the end of class, we'll order a couple pizzas from Jakeeno's and you can try out your new rocker! (Note: pizza time may run beyond class time, so plan on staying a bit later on the final day.)

    $170 ($135 tuition + $35 materials & pizza!)
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Sergey Vaynshenk



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  • Blacksmithing Project Shop: Hori Hori Garden Tool

    • Wed, August 26, 2026
    • Wed, September 09, 2026
    • 3 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Hammer your way to a unique gardening tool to use for many summers to come! In this workshop, you'll make a unique, hand-forged hori hori garden knife.  This traditional Japanese hand tool (meaning dig-dig) can be used for all your digging, planting and weeding needs. You'll gain a solid understanding of blacksmithing basics by learning key forging techniques such as drawing out and tapering as you create the blade of your hori hori. This class is designed for enthusiasts of beginner to intermediate skill levels who are eager to learn the traditional techniques of metalworking.

    $170 ($135 tuition + $35 materials)
    Open to ages 18 and up.

    Instructor: Sergey Vaynshenk


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  • First Heat: Coal Forge Blacksmithing Sampler

    • Sun, August 30, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 8

    Join us for a one-day intro to the basics of blacksmithing at Dodge Nature Center's open air smithy at Shepard Farm!


    Register here through Dodge Nature Center.

    Questions? Get in touch with us at info@cafac.org.





    Get a taste of blacksmithing as it's been done throughout the ages in this introductory workshop, designed with newcomers in mind. You'll learn about traditional methods and equipment, including the coal forge, hammer, tongs, and anvil. You'll practice your technique by forging an S hook, a J hook, or a shape that has yet to be invented. Feel the force when shaping molten metal!

    $115 (includes all supplies and materials)
    Open to ages 18 and up.

    Instructor: Lee Meilleur




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  • Coal Forge Blacksmithing Basics 1

    • Thu, September 10, 2026
    • Thu, October 08, 2026
    • 8 sessions
    • 365 Marie Ave W, West St Paul, MN 55118

    Join us for a 8-session dive into the basics of blacksmithing at Dodge Nature Center's open-air smithy at Shepard Farm!

    Register here through Dodge Nature Center. 

    Questions? Get in touch with us at info@cafac.org.

    Please note: classes at Dodge are not eligible for CAFAC scholarship awards.

    This course is designed to ignite your passion for blacksmithing and introduce you to the seemingly endless ways of expressing yourself by shaping iron with fire and hammer. You'll gain basic knowledge of iron and its characteristics, an understanding of the dynamics of a coal forge, and the ability to safely shape iron with heat and a hammer.

    By the end of class, you'll have covered the basic forging processes, including drawing and tapering, drifting, punching, twisting, and setting shoulders. You'll develop those skills through projects such as: quick tongs, scribe/center punch, round punch/drift, basic heat treating, hooks, multi hook rack, trivet… and you'll know what a clinker is!

    $450 (includes all materials and supplies)  |  8 sessions 
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Dan Osadchuk

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  • Blacksmithing Project Shop: Whimsical Wand Forging

    • Sat, September 12, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    In this workshop, you'll learn how to use a hammer and flame to fashion a piece of metal into a wand of iron as well as a familiar/companion piece for your wand. Through these pieces, the basics of forging will be covered: tapering, twisting, scrolling, upsetting, as well as other forms of bending, shaping, and finishing. As time and interest allow, we can also explore specialized techniques such as punching, chiseling, engraving, and sparkling (a finishing technique invented by the instructor!).

    Open to all skill levels -- no experience necessary.

    $110 ($90 tuition + $20 materials)
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Helene Constantine



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  • Coal Forge Blacksmithing Project Shop: Fire Poker

    • Sat, September 12, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 8

    Join us for a one-day intro to the basics of blacksmithing at Dodge Nature Center's open air smithy at Shepard Farm!


    Register here through Dodge Nature Center.

    Questions? Get in touch with us at info@cafac.org.





    In this class you will transform a piece of raw metal into an artistic yet functional fire poker for your fireplace or fire pit. You'll learn about traditional methods and equipment, including the coal forge, hammer, tongs, and anvil. To create your custom hand-forged piece, you'll practice essential skills: taper, bend, twist, forge weld, and collar. Open to beginners, though some forging experience will be helpful.

    $140 (includes all supplies and materials)
    Open to ages 18 and up.

    Instructor: Lee Meilleur




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  • Blacksmithing Project Shop: Bottle Openers for Beginners

    • Sun, September 13, 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Build your blacksmith skills with a fun and useful project: making a bottle opener. They’re quick to make and can incorporate all basic blacksmithing processes in one compact project. We'll end class with a celebratory bottle-opening to try out your new tool - that means a beer or soda is included! No experience necessary.

    $100 ($75 tuition + $25 materials)
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Gaea Dill-D'Ascoli



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  • Unfinished Business: Finishing Techniques for Metalwork

    • Tue, September 15, 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 5
    Register

    Join us for a one-day workshop that's all about taking your metal artwork across the finish line.

    In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to safely and confidently use angle grinders, die grinders, dremels, and other finishing tools to refine surfaces and remove casting or weld marks. We’ll also dive into needle scalers and sandblasters for texturing and cleanup, giving you a full toolkit for professional-quality finishes. A comprehensive patina demo will introduce you to color, oxidation, and sealing options so your work looks intentional and gallery-ready. This class is perfect for past casting students who have unfinished pieces waiting for attention, as well as artists who want to add hardware or make minor adjustments so their work functions smoothly. Bring your “almost done” projects and leave with completed, exhibition-ready metal sculpture.

    $90 ($75 tuition + $15 materials)
    Open to ages 18 and up.

    Instructor: Brighton McCormick


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  • Blacksmithing Project Shop: Penannular Brooch

    • Tue, September 22, 2026
    • 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Want to pin your kilt or cloak, or add a clever brooch to your scarf? Have an appreciation for Celtic fashion? In this introductory blacksmithing workshop, you'll make a penannular brooch of your very own! Penannular refers to an incomplete ring, which when combined with a pin serves as a clothing fastener. You'll be introduced to and practice basics blacksmithing techniques while you twist and taper your penannular and sharpen its accompanying pin. No experience necessary. 

    $85 ($70 tuition + $15 materials)
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Gaea Dill-D'Ascoli



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  • Blacksmithing Project Shop: Spoon-Making

    • Fri, September 25, 2026
    • 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Dip your fingers into basic blacksmithing and come out with a spoon, suitable for slurping soup (or anything else you'd eat with a spoon). In this short workshop, you'll learn basic blacksmithing techniques and have fun creating a unique and functional piece. We'll start with pre-cut spoon blanks, then dish the spoon using hammer and swage block, and finish the handle with twists, curves, or other decorative techniques.

    You'll make two spoons - one to keep for yourself, and one for our Bowls & Spoons Harvest Feast happening this fall! No experience necessary.

    $85 ($70 tuition + $15 materials)
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Gaea Dill-D'Ascoli



    Show details

  • Blacksmithing Project Shop: Penannular Brooch

    • Fri, October 02, 2026
    • 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 8
    Register

    Want to pin your kilt or cloak, or add a clever brooch to your scarf? Have an appreciation for Celtic fashion? In this introductory blacksmithing workshop, you'll make a penannular brooch of your very own! Penannular refers to an incomplete ring, which when combined with a pin serves as a clothing fastener. You'll be introduced to and practice basics blacksmithing techniques while you twist and taper your penannular and sharpen its accompanying pin. No experience necessary. 

    $85 ($70 tuition + $15 materials)
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Gaea Dill-D'Ascoli



    Show details

  • Blacksmithing Project Shop: Kitchen Petty Knife

    • Fri, October 02, 2026
    • Sun, October 04, 2026
    • 3 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 7
    Register

    In this class, you'll forge a functional kitchen knife from reclaimed car spring steel, learning essential techniques like shaping, beveling, heat treating, and grinding. The class will cover preparing the steel, learning to control heat, and hammering the blade to shape. Then you'll learn the technique of hardening and tempering the knife to ensure durability and edge retention. Grinding and sharpening will then refine the blade, preparing it for practical use. By the end of the class, you'll walk away with a custom, hand-forged kitchen knife and a solid foundation in traditional knife making.

    Previous blacksmithing experience is strongly recommended. Beginners are still welcome to sign up, but expect to work hard in this fast-paced class with a lot of hammering.

    $360 ($315 tuition + $45 materials)  |  Weekend intensive
    Open to ages 18 and up.

    Instructor: Sergey Vaynshenk


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  • Blacksmithing Basics 1 (TUE EVE)

    • Tue, October 06, 2026
    • Tue, November 24, 2026
    • 8 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 3
    Register

    If you had a hammer, would you use it to drive a nail? Or would you rather use it to forge a nail from red hot iron? This course is designed to ignite your passion for blacksmithing and introduce you to the seemingly endless ways of expressing yourself by shaping iron with fire and hammer. You'll gain basic knowledge of iron and its characteristics, an understanding of the dynamics of forging, and the ability to safely shape iron with heat and a hammer.

    By the end of class, you'll have covered the basic forging processes, including drawing and tapering, splitting, cutting, drifting, punching, twisting, upsetting. You'll develop those skills through projects such as: hooks, utensils, bottle openers, trivets, and forging tools.

    $415 ($360 tuition + $55 materials)  |  8 weeks
    Open to ages 18 and up, or 17 with a parent/guardian in attendance.

    Instructor: Sergey Vaynshenk

    Show details

  • Blacksmithing Project Shop: Forged Flowers & Leaves

    • Wed, October 07, 2026
    • Wed, November 04, 2026
    • 5 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 7
    Register

    Transform inorganic material into organic shapes in this hands-on workshop. You’ll learn how to manipulate metal into delicate, lifelike forms inspired by nature. Discover the intricate balance between strength and finesse as you hammer, bend, and texture steel to mimic the flowing lines of flower petals and leaves. By the end of the session, you’ll not only create a beautiful, hand-forged piece but also gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and precision involved in blacksmithing while practicing essential forging techniques.


    $265 ($225 tuition + $40 materials), 5 sessions
    Open to ages 18 and up.

    Instructor: Sergey Vaynshenk


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  • Blacksmithing Basics 1 (SUN MORN)

    • Sun, October 11, 2026
    • Sun, November 29, 2026
    • 8 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    If you had a hammer, would you use it to drive a nail? Or would you rather use it to forge a nail from red hot iron? This course is designed to ignite your passion for blacksmithing and introduce you to the seemingly endless ways of expressing yourself by shaping iron with fire and hammer. You'll gain basic knowledge of iron and its characteristics, an understanding of the dynamics of forging, and the ability to safely shape iron with heat and a hammer.

    By the end of class, you'll have covered the basic forging processes, including drawing and tapering, splitting, cutting, drifting, punching, twisting, upsetting. You'll develop those skills through projects such as: hooks, utensils, bottle openers, trivets, and forging tools.

    $415 ($360 tuition + $55 materials)  |  8 weeks
    Open to ages 18 and up, or 17 with a parent/guardian in attendance.

    Instructor: Lee Meilleur

    Show details

  • Blacksmithing Basics 2

    • Tue, October 13, 2026
    • Tue, December 01, 2026
    • 8 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 5
    Register

    For blacksmiths with experience, this class is aimed at continuing to develop your knowledge and skills. The approach will be less structured than Blacksmithing Basics 1 and more focused on your individual projects and exploration. You'll be able to take on new forging challenges including slitting, punching, and drifting as a lead in to forged joinery, along with variations on twists that require slitting and multiple passes. You'll practice drawing and tapering multiple splits in wider bar by making leaves. You'll leave this class able to design projects that combine multiple elements either in a single piece or multiple parts. Coming with a few design ideas will help you focus on skill development.

    Prerequisite: Blacksmithing Basics 1 or equivalent experience/permission from instructor. 

    $365 ($310 tuition + $55 materials)  |  8 weeks

    Open to ages 16 and up. 

    Instructor: Dan Osadchuk


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  • First Heat: Blacksmithing Sampler

    • Fri, October 16, 2026
    • 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 7
    Register

    Get a taste of blacksmithing in this introductory workshop, designed with newcomers in mind. You'll learn about traditional methods using modern equipment, including the propane forge, hammer, tongs, and anvil. Practice your technique by forging an S hook, a J hook, or a shape that has yet to be invented. Feel the force when shaping molten metal!

    $95 ($70 tuition + $20 materials)
    Open to ages 18 and up.

    Instructor: Lee Meilleur




    Show details

  • Blacksmithing Project Shop: Bottle Openers for Beginners

    • Sun, November 01, 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 8
    Register

    Build your blacksmith skills with a fun and useful project: making a bottle opener. They’re quick to make and can incorporate all basic blacksmithing processes in one compact project. We'll end class with a celebratory bottle-opening to try out your new tool - that means a beer or soda is included! No experience necessary.

    $100 ($75 tuition + $25 materials)
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: John Hehre



    Show details

  • Blacksmithing Project Shop: Creatures & Critters

    • Wed, November 18, 2026
    • Wed, December 02, 2026
    • 3 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 7
    Register

    Want a metal friend? Come make a pocket-size companion or two! In this 3-session class, we'll combine blacksmithing fundamentals into creative projects like whales, owls, and snails. No experience is necessary, but if you've swung a hammer before, this class will give you the opportunity to think through your skills in new ways. At the end of the class, you'll have 2-3 hand-made critters to decorate their keychains, desks, or keep in your pocket.

    $170 ($135 tuition + $35 materials)
    Open to ages 18 and up.

    Instructor: Gaea Dill-D'Ascoli


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  • Blacksmithing Project Shop: Hair Accessories

    • Fri, November 20, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 7
    Register

    Keep your flowing locks in place with hand-forged hair accessories that you'll craft yourself in this introductory blacksmithing workshop! We'll start by crafting a straight hairpin, practicing bends and twists along the way. Then you can continue making straight pins or veer into curved pieces to go with your hairpin. You'll be introduced to and practice basics blacksmithing techniques while you twist and taper your hair accessories to your satisfaction. No experience necessary.

    $90 ($75 tuition + $15 materials)
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Gaea Dill-D'Ascoli



    Show details

  • Unfinished Business: Finishing Techniques for Metalwork

    • Sat, December 12, 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 8
    Register

    Join us for a one-day workshop that's all about taking your metal artwork across the finish line.

    In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to safely and confidently use angle grinders, die grinders, dremels, and other finishing tools to refine surfaces and remove casting or weld marks. We’ll also dive into needle scalers and sandblasters for texturing and cleanup, giving you a full toolkit for professional-quality finishes. A comprehensive patina demo will introduce you to color, oxidation, and sealing options so your work looks intentional and gallery-ready. This class is perfect for past casting students who have unfinished pieces waiting for attention, as well as artists who want to add hardware or make minor adjustments so their work functions smoothly. Bring your “almost done” projects and leave with completed, exhibition-ready metal sculpture.

    $90 ($75 tuition + $15 materials)
    Open to ages 18 and up.

    Instructor: Brighton McCormick


    Show details

  • Open Forge Time

    • Fri, December 18, 2026
    • 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 8
    Register

    Open Forge Time is available to people who have taken (or are currently taking) a blacksmithing class at CAFAC.

    Let's fire up the forges and work on personal projects! This is a great opportunity to make tools or finish something you've been working on, with an instructor on hand to answer questions as needed. You'll provide your own metal and CAFAC will supply the tools, equipment, and shop consumables. 

    Experience is required. Please don't sign up if you haven't taken a blacksmithing class at CAFAC.

    $45
    Open to ages 18 and up.

    Instructor: Gaea Dill-D'Ascoli


    Show details

  • Blacksmithing Project Shop: Bottle Openers for Beginners

    • Sun, December 20, 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 8
    Register

    Build your blacksmith skills with a fun and useful project: making a bottle opener. They’re quick to make and can incorporate all basic blacksmithing processes in one compact project. We'll end class with a celebratory bottle-opening to try out your new tool - that means a beer or soda is included! No experience necessary.

    $100 ($75 tuition + $25 materials)
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: John Hehre



    Show details

CHICAGO AVENUE FIRE ARTS CENTER   3749 Chicago Avenue  |  Minneapolis, MN 55407  |  612-294-0400  |  info@cafac.org 

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