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.

Learn to shape hot steel into a one-piece blacksmith’s knife and leave with a finished, usable blade you helped create. No previous experience is required.

Purchasing a class does not reserve a date. You must contact me after checkout to schedule. If you need a specific date, check availability before purchasing. Classes are not held from October 1 through Christmas.

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, instruction, and your completed knife to take home.

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

How to Schedule

After checkout, email sales@dobermanforge.com with:

• Your order number.
• Attendee names.
• Preferred dates.

I do not automatically contact purchasers to schedule.

Arrange your booking within 12 months of purchase. The class itself may take place later on an agreed date.

Booking remains open year-round, but classes do not take place October 1 through Christmas. Additional dates are blocked for production before major shows. You can reserve January dates during the holiday period; those dates tend to fill quickly.

Start times are arranged with each student or group, from 9 a.m. onward, and confirmed when scheduling.

Gifts & Schedule Changes

This class can be given as a gift or transferred to another attendee. Provide the original order number when scheduling.

If you need to reschedule, notify me before your class begins. Earlier notice is appreciated, and replacement dates depend on availability.

A class missed without advance notice counts as used and does not qualify for a replacement session. Class purchases are non-refundable for change of mind. See the refund policy for full terms.

Younger Students

Students as young as 9 may be considered with prior approval, depending on maturity, attention, and ability to follow instructions. Contact me before purchasing for a younger student.

Students under 18 must attend with a parent or guardian.

What to Wear & Expect

Closed-toe shoes and natural-fiber clothing are required. Avoid synthetic fabrics, loose clothing, and dangling jewelry. Tie back long hair.

During winter, wear layers you can remove as the shop warms up.

The class involves heat, noise, standing, and hammering. Please discuss any accommodation needs before purchasing.

Dogs & Arrival Instructions

Two Dobermans live on the property. They are enthusiastic greeters, and the younger dog may jump up or mouth during greetings. Please mention any dog allergies or concerns before your visit.

When you arrive, remain in your vehicle and call or text 704-985-3136 so I can secure the dogs and direct you where to park.

Questions before purchasing? Email me.

Full class information · Refund policy