BGOP's Beginner Blacksmith Classes are offered as a six-week course, three hours every Thursday evening from 6-9 pm, with exclusive video content of class material for self-study. This block of instruction costs $300 per person for guild members ($40 annual dues). Checks should be payable to "BGOP" and are collected at the beginning of the first class. There's a Zelle option as well, I can share the address at the first meeting. Classes are limited to a maximum of seven students, and slots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. We maintain a wait-list in case people drop out at the last minute. Please send email to thetidewaterforge@gmail.com to RSVP.

Classes are oriented to adult learning, with emphasis on good ergonomics and inclusive options for varying physical abilities. Class structure begins with a description of the project and techniques needed, a demonstration by the instructor, then students work on their pieces while the instructor moves around to ensure good progress and answer additional questions or correct forging technique until the next section. Students are expected to attend to their personal needs like adults, including modest use of phones, making sure they are well-fed and hydrated, appropriately clothed for the forge (non-flammable clothing like cotton or wool is best, close-toe shoes a must, and dressed for the weather of the season), and creating a good learning environment by supporting their fellow students' work and behaving maturely. Adolescents are welcome, aged 14 and up, as long as a parent or responsible adult is physically present in case of emergency.*

Students learn how to operate a coal forge and manipulate iron into beautiful objects and useful tools. Students will end the class with a collection of hooks, nails, fire pokers, a center punch, and a pair of tongs, as well as a knowledge of how to operate a forge safely. Our goal is to teach people how to think about artistic design, use a wide array of hand tools to manipulate metal, and contribute to the Guild through positive participation.