12 Hour Classes
INSTRUCTOR: Alan Hamer, Fellow
COURSE: Metalworking
PROJECT: Iron Sign Hangers (This class is FULL)
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This class will use iron sign hangers to teach the basic skills of miniature blacksmithing. Students will start at the beginning, with a bit of class time learning the nature of iron, and other metals commonly used for miniatures. Common hand tools and their use, and the effects and use of heat to control metal will be discussed. The safe use of the micro torch will be demonstrated. This important skill will be used to soften metal, and to join it using silver solder, making joints stronger than the metal it’s self. The class will go on to learn about design, sizing, and layout of sign hangers. Then they will learn about forging iron, scroll work, and even a simple way of making the proper size iron chain needed—round, rectangular, or whatever is needed for a particular design. With guidance from the instructor, the students will then be released back into the wild to design and make an iron sign hanger or two. Most important, students will return home with the skills and confidence needed to be comfortable using metal in their future miniature projects.
TIME:
12 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS:
none
SKILL LEVEL:
All levels. Anyone with basic skills and a willingness to learn will get a good understanding of the processes and tools used in miniature metalworking.
MATERIALS FEE:
$35