For those who have a little bit of prior experience and want to stretch themselves a bit further!
A day of building on previously-practised skills! Spend a day in the forge, learn more advanced techniques and enjoy forging some more simple items or work on a larger project…
The Follow-On Forge Day is designed for those who have a bit of previous forging experience. We will likely start with a simple refresher on techniques – if you think you need it, but after that the day is really up to you. You have access to my forge and my expertise for a day. You can spend the day making a few simple items under guidance – working on technique, or perhaps create a larger more complex project upon which I can offer guidance and supervision, or we could work collaboratively.
Have a think prior to the day about what you might wish to make and feel free to bounce ideas off me in advance. If you are at a loss, I have suggestions I can make!
I very much look forward to meeting you, hope we can make some fantastic stuff that you can be proud of, and above all hope you enjoy your experience at Gate Foot Forge.
Booking information
Upon purchase, I will post out a voucher. This can either be to the giver or the recipient – if the recipient, then please specify and address and gift message below. The recipient can then contact me to book a course at a mutually agreeable time. I’m afraid that for the sake of my neighbours I must try and keep noise to a minimum at weekends, so courses can only be booked on weekdays. Vouchers are valid for up to 12 months from the date issued and are only redeemable if signed by my good self!
On the day…
Courses commence at 09:30 and aim to be completed by 17:00. If we finish the planned itinerary early, we can always find more stuff to do to fill the day! PPE and suitable clothing is essential. Details of what to bring are provided on the course itinerary sheet, and I’m afraid I cannot commence courses if adequate PPE is not worn. Sturdy footwear and old, comfortable clothes of natural materials are essential. Please avoid synthetics, which tend to weld themselves to skin in the event of sparks or fire. In winter, the workshop can get very cold. Conversely, with the forge running and some energetic activity, it can similarly get very warm – so a range of clothing is useful. Due to the heat it is important to keep hydrated too, so I recommend bringing a water bottle.
I will provide all consumables to fulfil the projects we will cover as well as teas, coffees and biscuits throughout the day. Contributions by way of cake or biscuits will always curry favour, though! Obviously McVities Chocolate Hobnobs or Fox’s Crunch Creams are the gold standard here. You must bring your own lunch so save me the minefield of dealing with catering, dietary requirements and allergies etc! The nearest shop is approximately 1 mile away, and there is also a small café a similar distance away..
Please respect my neighbours when parking – there is usually more space a short way down the road.
Rough Itinerary
- Brew and safety chat
- WHATEVER YOU WANT!
(Within reason…)
What to Bring
- Personal protective equipment
Sturdy footwear (preferably boots with toecaps)
If possible, please bring your own eye protection. I have spares if need be. - Old clothing
Cotton and wool – No synthetics! Full length trousers, no shorts please.
Bear in mind it can get both very warm and very cold depending on the time of year! - Packed lunch & Water bottle
Or head to the shops / Café - Sense of humour
- Brews and biscuits provided!
…but if you bring cake or more biscuits you get extra brownie points!
