Railroad

Spike Knife

The classic beginner class. This is a great class for those who are interested in learning blade smithing. This simple project requires a lot of strong hammer blows but you can work with a friend to speed things up. In the end you will come out with a beefy knife with a “forge brute” finish. Great practice for your bladesmithing journey.

This class teaches:

  • Tapering a blade

  • Beveling

  • Twisting

  • Sanding to sharpen

  • beeswax finish

You can opt to purchase a pre-made blade to supplement or gift away, either in class or at checkout.

Important Information

Youth Participants
Students ages 16 and older are welcome to enroll in all classes.

Youth ages 13–15 click here

Registration, Cancellations, and Rescheduling
Clay and Steel is a small business. If you are unsure whether you can attend, we kindly ask that you wait to register until your schedule is confirmed.

If you need to reschedule, please contact us as soon as possible.

  • Cancellations: Full refunds are available for cancellations made at least five days before the start of class.

  • Rescheduling: Classes may be rescheduled with at least 48 hours' notice, subject to availability.

  • Requests made less than 48 hours before class are not eligible for rescheduling or refunds. (Registrants may be able to join a class opening day of if they are unable to make their original appointment.)

Sign up for a RR Spike Class below.

Choose a quantity first if you want to bring more people.

Class Policies

Please wear all natural fabric/materials such as cotton jeans, t-shirts, wool or leather.

An ideal outfit is closed toed leather or cotton shoes w/rubber soles, a t-shirt (long sleeves OK), and jeans. Long hair should be tied up in a really cute way. Stud earrings are OK but larger earrings should be removed, the radiant heat can and will heat them! Aprons, goggles, and ear protection are provided.

DO NOT WEAR SYNTHETIC FIBERS. Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, nylon and spandex melt and stick to skin and feet when heated. Do not wear synthetic clothing or shoes when working with fire.

Clay and Steel is located at Seaport Studios in Richmond, CA. Seaport Studios is a very impressive shop and studio space filled with individually owned private art businesses. It is an active, working place made by artists and dreamers. Expect there to be fire, noise, welders, grinders, woodworkers, art cars, shop dogs and shop cats.

This smithy aims to feel like a safe place for all people. We love the differently abled. We are strong LGBTQ+ allies and treat fellow humans with respect.

How to prepare for class:

Read Preparing for Class and About Our Classes