List of Blacksmithing Classes in New Hampshire
The New England state of New Hampshire is home to many private workshops and craft schools that are dedicated to teaching traditional blacksmithing.
New England was the site of some of the earliest European settlements in American history. The newcomers brought with them traditional skills that made survival possible.
Folk arts and crafts continue to thrive in states like New Hampshire. Blacksmithing, glass blowing, fiber arts, and other crafts are practiced and taught by artists across the region.
New Hampshire has a variety of class styles for blacksmithing students of all skill levels. Professional blacksmiths, craft schools, and blacksmithing organizations offer classes in traditional blacksmithing and bladesmithing.
Whether you are brand new to smithing or just want to expand your skill set, the following are the best blacksmithing classes in New Hampshire.
- 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) Greenfield Forge
- Type: Blacksmithing, Bladesmithing
- Classes: small group, private, weekdays, weekends, mornings, afternoons, evenings, multiple week sessions
- Price: $345
- Website: https://www.greenfieldforge.net/
- Telephone: (603) 597-5226
- Location: 792 Forest Rd. Greenfield, NH 03047
Greenfield Forge is owned and operated by Vincent Anfuso. He specializes in custom ironwork and offers classes. New students learn by taking a six week course.
Anfuso’s course begins by teaching forging fundamentals. Once students have gained knowledge and experience with these techniques, the course transitions to basic knife making practices.
This is a great option for students wanting a comprehensive blacksmithing experience.
2) Sanborn Mills Farm
- Type: Blacksmithing, Knife Making
- Classes: small group, 2-3 days, full day
- Price: $225-$375
- Website: https://www.sanbornmills.org/blacksmithing/
- Telephone: (603) 435-7314
- Location: 7097 Sanborn Rd. Loudon, NH 03307
Sanborn Mills Farm is dedicated to teaching and preserving traditional crafts. The Farm offers workshops teaching blacksmithing, fiber arts, and more.
Blacksmithing classes were the first classes offered at Sanborn Mills Farm and continue to be a popular option. They are taught by Garry Kalajian, a master blacksmith and owner of Ararat Forge.
Students learn to create knives, hardware, and tools during the two to three day classes. Coal forge operation and forge welding are specific topics covered in class.
3) Gagnon Blacksmithing
- Type: Blacksmithing,
- Classes: private, shop rental, full day
- Price: $35/hour-$500/class
- Website: https://www.gagnonblacksmithing.com/
- Telephone: (603) 296-7394
- Location: 327 Campbell St. Manchester, NH 03104
Gagnon Blacksmithing is owned and operated by James D. Gagnon. He has over 35 years of experience in the industry and specializes in custom ironwork and teaching.
Classes at Gagnon Blacksmithing are appropriate for all skill levels. The introductory course teaches all the basics of blacksmithing including tapering, bending, twisting, drawing out, and tapering. Students create their own key rings, letter openers, hooks, pendants, and fire pokers.
Gagnon also offers a two day bladesmithing class. Students learn shaping, heat treating, grinding and finishing techniques to create belt knives.
Shop rentals are available for experienced smiths. More information about rental rates and scheduling can be found on Gagnon Blacksmithing’s website.
4) Iron Mike’s Forge
- Type: Blacksmithing, Bladesmithing
- Classes: one-on-one, child friendly
- Price: $65/hour
- Website: https://www.ironmikesforge.com/classes
- Telephone: N/A
- Location: 69 Cooley Hill Rd. Easton, NH 03580
Mike Platt is the owner of Iron Mike’s Forge. He has over 35 years of experience as a farrier and is also a mechanical engineer. Platt learned artistic blacksmithing and now offers both farrier services and blacksmithing classes.
Classes at Iron Mike’s Forge are one-on-one and perfect for any skill level. Students learn to create bracelets, railroad spike bottle openers and tomahawks.
Youth classes are also available.
5) New England Blacksmiths
- Type: Blacksmithing, Bladesmithing
- Classes: small group, meetings, demonstrations
- Price: ~$30 annual membership
- Website: https://www.newenglandblacksmiths.com/
- Telephone: N/A
- Location: Brentwood, NH & other locations
New England Blacksmiths is a blacksmithing organization made up of craftspeople from across the New England region. The organization offers affordable annual membership pricing and exclusive events.
Members of New England Blacksmiths get access to the organization’s newsletter, networking opportunities, and bi-annual meetings. These meetings take place in the spring and fall in locations across New England.
The meetings last for three days and include demonstrations and tailgating. More information about joining New England Blacksmiths can be found on their website.