Classes
Browse Your July-September Class Guide Ahead Of Member Registration
By Cathy Niland | 04.15.2021
Somehow it’s already April and July-September classes are about to go live for early member registration. You can start exploring our upcoming classes before they go on sale this Tuesday, April 20. Browse rare finds like The Bandsaw Box, Bell Casting, and Women’s Blacksmithing I. And adult weeklong classes (AKA grownup summer camps) return this August. Plus, our Moldmaking department is back for the first time since the pandemic began with Moldmaking and Casting with Plastic.
Following member registration, public registration will go live a week later on Tuesday, April 27. Not only do members get first dibs on newly released classes, but they also get 10% off class tuition—always! And if you have your eyes on an upcoming lab session, those are a member-exclusive perk as well.
But if you are still not a member don’t worry, your benefits go into effect right away. Become a member right now and start tapping into your VIP access. It’s the best way to ensure you always get a spot in your favorite classes.
These July-September classes are rare finds
If you see something you like, make sure you register ASAP!
Women’s Blacksmithing I
This class covers the fundamentals needed to forge steel and understand blacksmithing tools. We will introduce tapering, upsetting, flattening, dishing, and bending of hot steel – all the same skills and techniques as in Blacksmithing I, but in an all-female environment.
The Bandsaw Box
We will use a combination of power tools and hand tools to make boxes of all shapes and sizes. Demonstrated techniques will include hidden hinges, small drawers, pull knobs, and fitted lids, as well as texturing, carving, burning, painting, and finishing.
Metal Furniture Fabrication
Fabricate one-of-a-kind metal furniture for your home! Going beyond basic MIG welding, this course focuses on designing and fabricating functional and aesthetically interesting benches, coffee tables, flower stands, and more!
PREREQUISITE: MIG Welding I
Metal Clay Pendants and Earrings
Create pendants, earrings, and wearable sculptures from copper and silver metal clay, practicing and perfecting a variety of rolling, texture, applique, and carving techniques. Kiln fire each piece, then finish and polish your beautiful fine metal creations to be the envy of all!
Hand-Cut Dovetails
Cutting dovetail joints by hand is a milestone in the path of a fine woodworker. Students learn how to use chisels and saws to cut dovetails precisely, getting feedback on how to improve their work with hand tools.
Contemporary Embossing
Embossing is the process of raising the two-dimensional surface of a design to give it varying degrees of depth, an effect that can’t be achieved in painting, drawing, or printing. In this three-hour class, students will learn to emboss using a traditional press, exploring a variety of materials.
Digital Fabrication and Foundry
In this two-part course, you will be introduced to digital design and 3-D printing using Autodesk Fusion 360 with the goal of producing a number of pieces suitable for casting in aluminum. These designs will be 3-D printed using resin, PLA, and CNC milling.
Bell Casting
Bell Casting introduces participants to bell design and the lost wax foundry technique. Each student will design, cast, and finish a bell approximately six inches in diameter. This entry level class will provide a foundation for further exploration in this versatile foundry approach.
Kiln Formed Glass
Deepen your knowledge of fusing, slumping, and casting glass! Design two different open face molds, cast billet glass within to create unique relief sculptures, and experiment with the pot melt technique and the free flow pattern bar method into a mold or dam construction.
PREREQUISITE: Glass Fusing and Slumping I
Moldmaking and Casting with Plastic
Learn the secrets of plastic casting using flexible molds, just like the ones that professionals use for product development. You will make molds and use them to create plastic reproductions. Personal projects are welcome, subject to size limitations.
This department is returning for the first time since March 2020
Summer camp isn’t just for kids
Weeklong adult classes return this August in departments like Jewelry, Blacksmithing, Woodworking, and more.
3-Hour Tasters
Not ready to commit to a full class session? Try out one of our departments during a 3-Hour Taster class.