The use of fire and metal has been fundamental to the development of societies across the globe. As well as practical Smithing skills this workshop covers basic iron metallurgy, the chemistry and physics of fire and charcoal, as well as social history and anthropology.

This course will introduce the use of low tech, low fuel charcoal forges. The techniques and methods used allow people to start forging for themselves with very little initial investment.

The course will begin with an introduction to the use of charcoal and fire and will then consist of a series of practical forging exercises based on the interests and abilities of the participants.

There will be the opportunity for informal questions in the evenings after supper.

Anyone who has an interest in the Traditional art of Blacksmithying

Techniques covered will include
- Changing sections
- Bending and twisting techniques
- Punching and splitting
- Hot cutting
and possibly hardening and tempering techniques.

Personal projects may include
- Carving tools
- Chisels
- Toasting folks
- Candle handles
- Small spoons

This course will give you the knowledge and skills to set up a basic, small scale charcoal forge, manage the fire and produce heat necessary for forging iron. You will also learn and practice basic forging skills.

“Then all you have to do is hit it!” the metal that is.

You will be able to take home the items which you have made.

Fri 4th Oct, course starts at 2pm.
Course ends Sun 6th Oct 2013 at 2pm.
Course fee including full board accommodation £350, Concessions £200.

To reserve a place on one of our courses, choose one of the following options:

• email to courses@cat.org.uk.
• by telephone: Call the Courses Department on 01654 704 952 with your credit card details.
• by post: Firstly, call the Courses Department on 01654 704 952 to check availability and then post cheque to:

Short courses
Centre for Alternative Technology
Machynlleth
Powys
Wales
SY20 9AZ

Please note: a £100 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your place.

The balance of the course fee is due two weeks before the start of the course.

Course Fees and Concessions
We offer concessions rates where stated for some courses, concessions apply to unemployed, retired or full-time students.

Our course fees include VAT, full board accommodation, tuition and materials, unless otherwise stated.

Cancellation Policy
We regret that except in cases of illness, we will make the following cancellation charges:
a) more than two weeks before the course - half the fee forfeit.
b) less than two weeks before the course - the full fee forfeit.

The deposit is non refundable in most circumstances.

However, the Centre reserves the right to cancel any courses, deposits and fees will be returned in full should this happen.