The heart of the knife lies in its blade. This course brings the crafts of blacksmithing and knifemaking together as participants unlock the Norwegian bladesmithing traditions. A thorough discussion of the history and culture as well as hands-on experience give you an approach to crafting a blade that is both a reflection of longstanding tradition and personal expression. Using a method popular in Norway but approachably simple, students will forge several laminated knife blades. Class will begin with the construction of tongs suitable for bladesmithing, and move on to forging, heat treating and grinding blades. Students may choose to take home the tongs as well as the blades or donate their tongs to the North House shop for future use. Previous forging experience is helpful but not required.