10.28.23 // Neo Pre-Post-Apocalyptic Blacksmithing w/ Tod Kershaw // 12p-5p

So what is "Neo pre-post-apocalyptic blacksmithing", anyways?

It’s post-apocalyptic because it could theoretically be done in a post apocalyptic setting. Its pre-post-apocalyptic since we’re not (yet) in that setting. It's neo to make it more pretentious.  

In this class, we will cover tools, fuels, materials and methods for blacksmithing off-grid and without modern power tools. The emphasis is on scavenging in the surplus and detritus of the modern world to create a fully functional metal working workspace and to create beautiful and useful things in that workspace.

Tod's focus and passion is in sharing how to do all this for free or cheap, as if modern consumer culture was no longer available to us, but the scraps still are.

Tod's aim is to dispel mystery around blacksmithing and give participants enough information that they will be able to go home and set up a rudimentary, but fully functional blacksmithing operation for relatively little money.

The class will consist of demonstration + Q&A followed by hands on blacksmithing by all participants. You'll learn both the art of fire making + tending--you need a strong and efficient fire in order to get that hot, orange steel!--as well as metal shaping. Each participant will take home a simple but functional creation of their own.

*Please come ready to play with fire--closed toed shoes and NO synthetic clothing!

Event Details

Date/Time: October 28th, 12-5p

Location:  Private woodland retreat center on the South Toe River in Celo off of Lower Browns Creek. Directions will be provided upon registration.

Cost: $75-$95

Meet your Instructor:

Tod Kershaw has been blacksmithing for 13 years and has gone on to teach blacksmithing for the last 7 years. He's shared his classes at Earthskills Rendezvous, Firefly Gathering, and Forest Floor Wilderness programs for kids in Asheville. Tod's shop at his home in Barnardsville, where he also offers classes, is off grid and non-electric. He uses all hand tools, mostly functional antiques, and these are the tools he will bring to this class. 

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation by Villagers:

If a class needs to be cancelled because (1) it does not meet the minimum number of registrations or (2) due to inclement weather, you will be notified by email 24 hrs in advance.  Please check your email 24 hrs prior to class.  For cancellations by Villagers, you will receive a full refund.

Cancellation by Student:

If you cancel in advance of 48 hours before the class, you will receive a refund minus a 15% cancellation fee. Cancellations with less that 48 hrs notice are not eligible for a refund.

If you do not show up and do not give notice, your registration fee will be treated as a donation to the teacher and Villagers.