The Ember List

BL_S01: Blacksmithing Safety Sign-off: Forging an S Hook (31 Oct 2026)

Saturday, October 31 · 1 PM · Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030

About

This class covers the basics of blacksmithing with a simple, fun project. Makers learn essential skills like hammer control, tapering, bending and twisting as well as key safety items like how to avoid burning yourself, branding your friends or hitting yourself with blunt objects. You will leave with whatever metal you have beaten into submission. After you complete this class, you can join us at the "supervised practice sessions" and work on anything you can dream up, with help from experienced smiths. INSTRUCTOR: Robert M. Instructor Bio: Robert has been a Nova Labs member since 2021 and a blacksmith since 2022. He is a mentor for Nova Labs' high school robotics team, Newton Squared, and is active in all the loud and/or smelly shops. In the forge, his main interest is small-scale artistic blacksmithing - hooks, keychains, and jewelry. SIGN OFF: Blacksmithing Safety. PREREQUISITES: None AGE: 16 and over. Any person aged 16 or 17 must have a parent remain on the premises in case of emergency. Mandatory Safety Dress Code: Must wear cotton or wool clothing – no synthetic materials. Shoes must be made from leather or canvas; plastic-topped sneakers will not be allowed Eye protection (goggles) are provided, but you may bring your own for the best fit. There is no refund if the student is non-compliant with the safety dress requirement or more than 15 minutes late for class

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