Blacksmithing Frequently Asked Questions
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- How do I become a Troy Historical Society (THS) Member? Click here to learn more about becoming a member and to purchase a membership.
- Do I need to register in advance? Yes! We do not accept walk-ins at the door for this program.
- Can I get a refund for this program? No, we do not offer refunds for this program unless we (the Village) cancels or reschedules the program. Due to the high demand and limited space in these classes, purchases are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. We would be happy to convert your registration into a tax-deductible donation and send a receipt upon request.
- I registered online, but I have friends/family that want to join. They should call 248-524-3570 to see if there is still space in the class.
- Who teaches this class? Resident Metalsmith Rose Naimo Weiss teaches all of our Blacksmithing and Coppersmithing Classes.
- What happens if I miss a class? You must attend all six classes. In particular, the first class includes vital safety information. Missing the first class or any of the other classes forfeits your place in the Blacksmithing Class and you will not be refunded.
- Is this event held rain or shine? Yes, this event will be held rain or shine as it takes places indoors. In cases of severe weather, we will contact you to let you know if the class has been rescheduled or cancelled.
- What should I wear? You must wear closed-toe shoes, a shirt with long sleeves, and pants. Natural fibers (cotton, wool) are preferable over synthetic materials which can melt if a stray spark lands on them. Please wear properly fitted clothing and avoid wearing baggy long sleeves, long necklaces, etc.
Firescale is very thin flakes of metal that form on the surface of metal when it is heated to very high temperatures. Firescale comes off when you are hammering. Wearing long sleeves will shield your arms from firescale.
- How old do I need to be to take a blacksmithing class? This varies between classes. In general, you must be 12 years old or older. Parents are welcome to stay on-site during class.
- I have already taken blacksmithing classes somewhere else. Do I need to take the Level 1 class? Yes! Although previous experience is helpful, the Level 1 class is required for three reasons:
(1) Our program provides a unique historical experience, with a coal forge drafted by a 250-year-old bellows. You will learn how to operate both.
(2) There are a lot of safety rules that you will need learn in our small and unique space.
(3) There are 13 basic hand forging techniques that you need learn from our Metalsmith in order to move on to the next class.
- Does the Village offer private blacksmithing courses if I want to choose my own project? Yes! Please email info@thvmail.org to let us know you are interested.
- Can I make sword in a private blacksmithing class? No. First, you have to make a butter knife, then work your way up! Bladesmithing is a specific set of skills within blacksmithing. It takes a minimum of 7 years for a bladesmith in Japan to learn the craft of bladesmithing before forging a very large blade, such as a sword.
- Will food or drink be available? No, Troy Historic Village does not sell food, nor do we have water fountains. You are welcome to bring a bottle of water and snacks are allowed for medical reasons. Please note we are a peanut free facility.