List of Blacksmithing Classes in Nevada
The state of Nevada in America’s western region is best known for the bright and busy city of Las Vegas.
Vegas offers plenty to see and do and its night life is second to none. Those who are interested in traditional crafts like blacksmithing may be surprised to find out that Las Vegas and other cities in Nevada offer high-quality learning opportunities.
Nevada’s history as a mining and frontier state make it the perfect place to learn blacksmithing and related skills. The state started out as part of the Spanish empire before being annexed. The California Gold Rush and the discovery of silver ore in Nevada itself led emigrants to the area.
Before and after its establishment as a state, early Nevadans relied on their small town blacksmiths for everyday tools. Equipment utilized by local mining operations would also have been crafted by a blacksmith.
Today, blacksmith shops and organizations in Nevada teach students of all skill levels both traditional and modern techniques.
Whether you are a resident of Nevada or a visitor, the following are some blacksmithing opportunities to consider if you want to learn the craft for yourself.
- Powerful Dual Burners: Equipped with two high-efficiency burners for rapid heating, providing...
- Durable Construction: Made from heavy-duty steel and insulated with fire-resistant materials...
- Large Forging Space: Spacious work area accommodates larger projects, allowing blacksmiths to work...
1) Tonopah Historic Mining Park
- Type: Blacksmithing
- Classes: small group, seasonal
- Price: Contact for pricing information
- Website: https://www.tonopahminingpark.com/blacksmithing-classes/
- Telephone: (775) 277-1220
- Location: 110 Burro Ave. Tonopah, NV 89049
Tonopah Historic Mining Park is a unique museum of Nevada mining history. The 100 acre park has buildings, exhibits, self-guided tours, and an underground mining tunnel to help visitors understand historical mining operations.
The park aims to preserve the history of mining in Nevada and communicate its importance to the early history of the state.
Tonopah Historic Mining Park offers blacksmithing classes that introduce students to traditional techniques used in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Students learn how to use a coal forge. They also practice bending, twisting, and other techniques to make useful and decorative items.
The classes are open to youth and adults and are perfect for beginners and those wanting to continue their blacksmithing education.
The classes run from August to October each year. Contact the park directly for more information on upcoming class dates and pricing.
2) Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC)
- Type: Blacksmithing, Knife Making
- Classes: small group, multiple week sessions, weekdays, evenings
- Price: $179-$200
- Website: https://truckee.augusoft.net/index.cfm?method=course.classinformation&coursenumber=AC114
- Telephone: (775) 829-9010
- Location: 1055 Industrial Way Suite 20 Sparks, NV 89431
Truckee Meadows Community College or TMCC is located in Reno and specializes in preparing students for careers in their community.
The College offers blacksmithing and knife making classes taught by Robert Harbin. He is a historian and craftsman who specializes in reproducing historically accurate items. His classes are perfect for all skill levels.
Students learn traditional and modern methods of smithing in Harbin’s classes. Knife making classes cover metal types, grinding, heat treating, handle making, and more. Students learn to craft a Finnish puuko knife during class time.
TMCC’s blacksmithing classes take place at the Bridgewire Makerspace in neighboring Sparks, Nevada. More information about the Makerspace is listed below.
3) Bridgewire Makerspace
- Type: Blacksmithing, Welding
- Classes: small group, open shop
- Price: $70 per month or $500 per year
- Website: https://bridgewire.org/
- Telephone: N/A
- Location: 1055 Industrial Way Suite 20 Sparks, NV 89431
Bridgewire Makerspace is a collaborative community workshop located in the Reno area. The Makerspace welcomes craftspeople of all kinds.
Bridgewire has over 5,000 square feet of workspace and specialized shops for 3D printing, electronics, woodworking, machining, and metalsmithing. The metalsmithing workshop includes grinders, forges, anvils, cutoff saws, and much more.
The Makerspace is open 24/7 for members, making it the perfect place to go whenever inspiration strikes! If you are interested in joining the Makerspace and want to learn more, make sure to visit on “open space night” Bridgewire is open to the public every Thursday evening from 6 t0 9 pm.
If you do decide to become a member, you can pay in monthly installments or choose an annual enrollment option.
Hello,
I work for the Reno Rodeo Association and I was wondering if there is a Nevada Black Smith Association?
If you have any information on this will you please let me know!