Tool-Making for Advanced Blacksmiths: Camp Hatchet

Once you've nailed down the basics of blacksmithing, it's time to kick it up to the next level. Consistent in nearly every aspect of blacksmithing is the necessity to make tools for the purpose of making more tools! Does it get any better than that?

In this weekend intensive, you'll forge a camp hatchet with a punched eye for the haft. We'll start by creating the slot punch for the eye, then use the punch to forge the eye of their hatchet. From there, you'll complete the shape of the hatchet inclusive of a forge-welded high carbon bit on the cutting edge. Leave this workshop having practiced techniques including advanced forge work, punching/drifting, heat treating, and forge welding - and a tool for lifelong use!

Bring your own tools if you'd like (forging hammer, miscellaneous tongs, hot cut chisel) or use ours. Standard shop attire required: safety glasses, apron and gloves recommended, work shoes/boots, natural fiber clothing. Prerequisite: Blacksmithing Basics 1 or equivalent knowledge.  |  Fee: $220  (includes all materials and lunch)

Instructor: For the past 35 years, David Mariette has been a metal fabricator, blacksmith, and run his own blacksmithing business, AnvilDancer® Forged Iron. As a member of the Guild of Metalsmiths, David served on their board of directors for 14 years, twice as president. During his tenure he chaired the education committee for four years and was awarded the Guild's Juaire/Hubler Award. David became involved with CAFAC before it opened its doors, participating in efforts to establish the CAFAC community and developing the first curriculum for the blacksmithing program, as well as teaching all levels of blacksmithing for seven years.