Forge Your First Blade (3-Hour Intro Class)

Forge Your First Blade

Three-hour introductory class · $125 per person

Try your hand at forging with Gabe Mabry, Forged in Fire champion, at Doberman Forge in North Carolina.

This beginner-friendly class introduces you to shaping hot steel and turning it into a functional tool. You’ll forge a one-piece blacksmith’s knife and leave with a finished, usable blade you helped create.

What You’ll Learn

• Basic hammer control and shaping hot steel.
• Tapering and forming a one-piece knife.
• The purpose of heat treatment.
• Finishing and sharpening your blade with guidance.

What’s Included

Steel, tools, protective equipment, and instruction are included. No previous experience is required.

This is an introductory forging project. Knives with fitted handle scales and more involved construction belong in the two-day workshop.

Purchase First, Then Contact Me to Schedule

This purchase does not reserve a date. Email Sales@DobermanForge.com after checkout with your order number, attendee names, and preferred dates. I do not automatically contact purchasers to schedule.

Need specific dates? Check availability before purchasing.

Booking stays open year-round, but classes do not take place from October 1 through Christmas. Additional dates are blocked before major shows. You can reserve January dates during the holiday period.

Arrange your booking within 12 months of purchase; attendance may take place later on an agreed date. Start times are flexible, from 9 a.m. onward, and confirmed when scheduling.

Gifts & Rescheduling

You may purchase this class as a gift or transfer it to another attendee. Use the original order number when scheduling.

To reschedule, notify me before your class begins. New dates depend on availability.

A missed class without notice before its scheduled start is considered fulfilled, with no replacement session. Class purchases are non-refundable for change of mind.

Younger Students

Students as young as nine may be considered based on maturity and ability to follow instructions. Contact me before purchasing for a younger student. Under-18s must attend with a parent or guardian.

Before You Arrive

Closed-toe shoes and natural-fiber clothing are required. Avoid synthetic fabrics, loose clothing, and dangling jewelry; tie back long hair. In winter, wear removable layers.

Expect heat, noise, standing, and hammering. Discuss any accommodation needs before purchasing.

Two Dobermans live on the property. They greet visitors enthusiastically; the younger dog may jump up or mouth during greetings. Tell me in advance about dog allergies or concerns.

Remain in your vehicle on arrival and call/text 704-985-3136 so I can secure the dogs and direct you where to park.

Full class information · Refund policy