Animal motifs can be found in folk art the world over, from everyday creatures to more mythical beasts. What meaning each image conveys can really only be known to the maker, but that fact makes them no less inspiring to the modern eye. In this course, students will learn to forge dragons and other animals in metal. As is common in blacksmithing, we’ll start with forging the basic tools. We will move on to forging dragon heads in relief to be used as decorative elements. Next up, a horned dragon’s head in the full three dimensions. Opportunities to practice the techniques in clay will make the learning process more forgiving and will allow time for additional individual projects in steel as the course progresses. Students will leave with the tools and sense of design needed to continue at home. Youth ages 16-17 may attend if accompanied by a full-paying adult. The youth student will receive a 25% intergenerational discount; call to register. 

Required Tools

• All cotton clothing
• Closed Toed Shoes
• Safety Glasses (available to borrow, but you may prefer your own) 
• Leather Gloves 

Optional Tools

• Leather Apron
• Any blacksmithing equipment you might already have