Class Descriptions

Copper Culture and Bead Making - Peter McCreedy


Explore the 5000 year old copper culture of the Great Lakes’ native people. Peter will present a brief slideshow with archaeological documents, maps, and artifacts, then we will pound reclaimed copper with hammer and anvil, anneal it in a forge, and create three historically accurate tubular beads like those found widely traded throughout the eastern woodlands. We will also make our own cord from local basswood fiber for your new necklace or bracelet. This class will be for both kids and adults - a great opportunity for parents and children to work together on a project that all ages will appreciate!

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Making the Bark Awl Bit - Tim Carr


The bark awl is a core tool for many arts like making bark baskets, toboggans, traditional homes, and of course canoes. In this workshop, you will make your own custom awl bit with a hammer and forge. Then, once you have properly shaped, sharpened, and tempered your awl bit, take it to Ben’s awl handle workshop and take home a beautiful finished tool that will last a lifetime of use and will make a great display piece.

Bark Awl Antler Handles - Ben Piersma


Antler makes some of the finest awl handles. and ben will have the raw materials and tools to help you put a beautiful handle on your bit after you hand forge it with Tim.

Hand Forged “S” Hook - Tim Carr


The S hook is not only a handy item to have around, it is also a great beginning blacksmith project.

Hand Pounded Copper Bowl - Todd Parker


Create a stunning copper bowl with hammer stones, water, and fire. And they are as functional as they are beautiful. Todd will guide you through the steps, and will also share his knowledge of Great Lakes copper history, mining, processing, and trade.

Materials Fee  - $25

Hammered Copper Pendant - Todd Parker


Todd will guide you through the process of crafting a hammer pounded pendant using sheet copper. The various techniques for design and decoration will be taught as you complete the project.

Materials Fee  - $15