“Intro” Forge a Railroad Spike Knife
Our most popular beginner blade
If you’re gonna make a knife…
The railroad spike knife is the classic beginner project taught all over the world. The blade feels good in the hand, looks sexy, teaches important blacksmithing concepts, and starts from a thicker piece of steel (5/8”) than other “Intro” projects. Thicker steel means that this project asks for more trips to the forge, more hammering, and usually a longer session time. You may finish in 4 or 5. Or 6! Students who finish early may choose to leave, or remain the full 6 hour slotted time to practice more.
These blades can work the ground, gut a fish, roast a mallow, and drive a tent stake. Shiny knives, matte knives, long blades or short stubby ones, this class gets you ready for our Intermediate or CBA offerings. This is a popular class, email us if your preferred time slot sells out!
This class includes:
Extensive safety training, PPE, a tour of our smithy, demonstrations, and an extra long guided forging time. We’ll also take a break for snacks and drinks.
Concepts taught:
Safety, tools, hammer control, tongs control, tapering, flattening, beveling, twisting and grinding.
You can opt to purchase a pre-made blade to supplement or gift away.
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
