I've now completed two courses here: A Taste of Blacksmithing and Wrought Iron Bracelets. Now, I no…read morelonger want use any tool, wear any ornament, or eat with utensils that I haven't forged with my own brawn, because if I haven't forged it, IT'S CRAP. This new way of being is the direct result of my awesome experiences at Prospect Hill Forge.
Admittedly, my first S hook turned into a J hook because (to my chagrin) I hammer like a blind, palsied drunkard who has alien hand syndrome. But, I am determined to go from sad J hook to dragon armor, and I believe Carl and Mike can help me unlock this achievement. My bracelet came out much better. Progress!
Here's what to expect:
- Show up dressed appropriately. Jeans and boots! This isn't a beach holiday, fool. And be on time, because the whole class gets held up if one person is fashionably an asshole.
- Gear up: leather aprons, glasses, and ear protection are all provided.
- Heed Carl's preliminary safety bit: It covers what to do if you get burned, what to do if you drop stuff, etc. Luckily, I have not been burned yet, but it is destined to happen sooner or later. Many aloe plants are on hand in case of an emergency.
- Watch Carl forge something. No need to take copious notes; he has them written on a blackboard.
- Go to your forge, put your iron in the fire, and start hammering away. Be generally disappointed in yourself once you realize Carl only makes it look easy because he's been doing this since the 70s. Don't let your tears hit the hot iron because it will cool it down faster.
- Expect either Carl or Mike to check on you numerous times to 1.) correct your stance, 2.) correct your grip, 3.) offer helpful pointers, 4.) salvage the piece of slag you just totally mangled in your ignorance.
- Miraculously, end up with a finished piece of work! Be the envy of all of your friends. Impress your grandmother.
Some cautionary words:
- If you have OCD, this place would most likely give you a brain aneurysm. The forge is kind of chaotic, much like my dad's garage. And if you are afraid of dirt or fire, this is probably the wrong skill for you to learn.
- Don't ever show up wearing white. Before or after Labor Day.
- Drink plenty of water. They have a water cooler there should you need some.
- While I'm on the subject of hydration, the bathroom is guaranteed to terrify you. But don't let that deter you from keeping yourself properly hydrated. And don't hold it either. You'll get a bladder infection.
Other helpful info:
- I was able to successfully navigate my way to this place from the Waltham commuter rail stop. It was roughly a 10-15 minute walk.
- If you drive, there seems to be adequate parking.
- I personally found that my experience was better during the day rather than in the evening. You really need to be awake and alert, or else you will make stupid mistakes, and probably kill someone.
