Metal Fabrication
Forge: Blacksmithing an Elbow Adze
Learn how to forge your own adze and strap it to an elbow-shaped handle.
BARN Member Fee$175.00 (any noted materials fee included) |
Non-Member Fee$212.00 (any noted materials fee included) |
Tuition Assistance and Other Policies
Meeting Times
- Thur, 9/18/2025 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thur, 9/18/2025
About
The adze is an ancient tool primarily for shaping wood, removing material, and creating smooth surfaces. In its earliest forms, adzes were made of knapped flint or copper blades strapped to elbow-shaped handles. These form-function tools are depicted in Egyptian hieroglyphs with the meaning “chosen,” as in Chosen of God/Goddess.
You'll learn the process of creating an elbow adze by forming yellow-hot steel into the shape of the adze with hammer, tongs, and anvil. Then you’ll heat treat the steel and sharpen your adze. Finally, you’ll strap your adze to the handle that will be provided.This class is rooted in prehistoric craft, and we'll have a lot of fun!
Materials
A $25 materials fee, included in the class price, covers everything you'll need.
Class Policies
- All of BARN's forge events are held in open-air, unconditioned spaces. Please dress accordingly.
- Wear natural fiber clothing only (no synthetics that could burn your skin).
- Wear sturdy boots or shoes with closed toes and heels. Sandals are not permitted.
- Ages 14 and up are welcome.
BARN Policies
- View BARN's Cancellation and Refund Policy.
- Tuition Assistance is available. Fill out the application before registering.
- BARN is committed to accessibility. We try to make accommodations when requested; the earlier you contact us, the more likely we can help. Fill out the Accommodation Request Form before any class for which you require an accommodation. Email accessibility@bainbridgebarn.org if you have any questions.
- Sensory Statement: Makerspaces like BARN can be noisy and cluttered, smell strongly, and have bright or flickering lights. BARN is not an allergen-free facility. If you have concerns, please email info@bainbridgebarn.org.
Instructors or Guides
Yori Seeger
Yori is a sculptor and a blacksmith who trained in Florence, Italy, and received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the San Francisco Art Institute. He cofounded an art school called Visual Philosophy where he created and taught the curriculum for both blacksmithing and sculpting programs. He has worked in sculpture studios, foundries, and blacksmith shops for 20-plus years. He specializes in large-scale, figurative sculpture; ornamental ironwork; and forging woodworking tools. He's also very passionate about teaching these trades and traditions. View Yori's work at https://www.yoriseeger.com.
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