Bladesmithing

Dates: July 21-26, 2024
Instructor: Sam Farnworth
Fee: $600.00 + meals and accommodations fees
Term: Summer 2024

Workshop Description

We shall be learning the fundamentals of bladesmithing by hand forging several different tools. All participants will learn forging, heat treating, sharpening, and handle making. Everyone will finish with 1 every day knife, 1 small carving knife, and 2 wood working gouges.

 

Max 8 people

Forged knife on a stump
Sam Farnworth

Instructor Bio

Sam Farnworth

 

In 2013, I took an hour-long introduction to blacksmithing class that changed my life. Now, seven years later, I am a full-time, self-taught bladesmith with my own shop outside of Bend, Oregon. I have dedicated myself to creating exceptional blades that are both functional and beautiful. My hope is that they not only serve you and your needs but perform above and beyond your wildest expectations.

Workshop Details

Workshop Schedule

Plan to arrive at the Sierra Nevada Field Campus on Sunday by 6 pm for dinner. We’ll do some warm-up exercises that first night and get serious the next morning. Each day we’ll work blacksmithing until mid-afternoon, then take a break before dinner. 

Workshop Supplies List

Required materials

Please bring close toed shoes.

 

Optional:

-personal leather work gloves

-personal ear protection

-personal eye protection

Lodging and Camping Supplies

CAMPING GEAR IF YOU ARE STAYING ON CAMPUS

  • tent and sleeping pad (unless you are staying in our tent with a cot provided)
  • warm sleeping bag
  • pillow, toiletries, and towel
  • flashlight and lantern
  • alarm clock

FIELD GEAR FOR EVERYONE

  • day pack
  • sunscreen
  • insect repellant
  • water bottles
  • plastic containers for packed lunches
  • sense of humor

YOU MIGHT ALSO WANT TO BRING

  • camera
  • binoculars
  • hand lens
  • camp chair

CLOTHING

The weather in the Sierra Nevada can vary greatly, even in a single day. Be prepared for chilly temperatures at night, even below freezing early in the summer. Rain is a possibility any time, whether forecast or not. Variable weather clothing that can be layered is best: long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, warm sweater and jacket, t-shirt and shorts or skirt, sturdy shoes or hiking boots, sun hat, rain gear, and a warm hat or gloves for cold weather and/or night activities. And, if you come later in the season, bring your swimsuit for afternoon dips in the lakes!