Participants in this workshop will learn how to forge and heat-treat their own Viking Style Bearded Axe, first forging the tools needed in order to forge that axe. The class will start with the forging of a mandrel to form the axe eye, and a pair of knee tongs that will aid in holding the axe head while we work on it. The axe body will be folded around the mandrel and forge welded together. Forge welding is a big component of the class and ideally an entire day would be taken up with forge welding. The blades will then be heat treated. Participants will also learn how to sharpen their axes, and how to seat them properly on the wooden handles. Participants should have successfully forge welded at least once prior to their arrival to get the most out of this class. Students ages 16-17 are welcome to register with an adult. A 25% tuition discount applies to the youth registrant when registering with a full paying adult; 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