Introductory Copper & Iron Workshop

Blacksmithing is a physical art and safety is our number one priority. Students swing hammers, work with hot metal, and move between workstations on a packed dirt floor. For their own safety and that of others, all students must be able to take direction from our instructor. If you have questions about Blacksmithing classes or about accessibility and accommodations, please contact us at info@thvmail.org before registering and we will be happy to help!

Due to the high demand and limited space in these classes, purchases are non-refundable and non-exchangeable.

Introductory Copper & Iron Workshop

Monday, August 3 – Friday, August 7 | 6pm-8:30pm
THS Member: $260 | non-member: $310
Scroll down or click here to register.

Learn the traditional arts of coppersmithing and blacksmithing as you make a unique bird feeder mobile. You will learn hot and cold forging techniques including sinking, raising, chasing-and-repoussage, bending, riveting and annealing. Emphasis will be on the proper use of hammers and other hand tools, as well as the use of fire to work both metals in this weeklong workshop.

*Ages 15 & older.
*No prerequisite.

You must attend all five 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 Coppersmithing Class and you will not be refunded.

Meet the Teaching Artist

Resident Metalsmith, Rose Naimo Weiss, has shared her fascination with metalsmithing for over two decades and is as passionate about learning as she is teaching. She earned a BFA from Wayne State University where she first learned the craft of metalwork. Rose has several pieces in private collections and creates new pieces on commission.

Before building the blacksmithing and coppersmithing classes here at the Village beginning 2011, Rose taught in many settings from elementary school to community college. Teaching classes here at the Village has given her the opportunity to bring together a wide range of people who often only have one thing in common - a desire to learn how to work metal! 

What to Expect

Before you arrive for your first class, you will receive a reminder email with a link to a waiver. Please fill out the waiver online before you arrive to class.

When you arrive for your first class, please check with Rose at the side gate of the Main Building. Please be sure to arrive 10-15 minutes early and please silence your cellphone.

Resident Metalsmith Rose Naimo Weiss will lead the class through step-by-step instructions. Please wait for her instructions and follow all safety measures! This will ensure that you have a completed project by the end of the last class.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have accessibility questions, please click here to visit our accessibility page or contact us at info@thvmail.org and we will be happy to help!

• 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 CopperClasses. Her bio is listed above.
• 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.
• How old do I need to be to attend this program? For this class, the participant must be 15 years old or older. Parents are welcome to stay on-site during the class.
• 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.