Blacksmithing Class: The Carpenters Axe

Discover the art of ironwork and hand-forge an axe at this blacksmithing class in Edinburgh.


Work of Iron
Work of Iron
5.0 (1)
Instagram followers 5k followers

2 x 5 hours Class size 1 to 5 guests       £485 (PayPal Pay in 3 available)

Discover a traditional craft in this blacksmithing course in Edinburgh, where you’ll learn the fundamental techniques of forging metal in a supportive and hands-on environment. Working directly at the anvil and controlling the fire yourself, you’ll gain practical experience while creating your own forged axe.
This workshop is designed for adults and welcomes beginners who are curious about metalwork. With small group sizes and expert guidance throughout, you’ll learn the basics of blacksmithing while exploring the history and science behind hot forging.
What to expect:
  • A hands-on introduction to key blacksmithing techniques.
  • Learn about metallurgy and the history of hot forging.
  • Work directly at the forge and anvil with full control of the fire.
  • Practice techniques before forging your own axe.
  • Small class sizes (maximum five participants) for personalised guidance.
  • Keep your finished work and learn how to care for it.
The course runs from 10:00am to before 4:00pm on both consecutive days, with a one-hour lunch break. This practical workshop may get a little messy, but an expert blacksmith will guide you every step of the way. You'll walk away with a sense of rewarding achievement and a bespoke, long-lasting axe after gaining skills you'll continue to use long after the class!
Please note: This course is for adults aged 18+. Bookings are requested first and confirmed by the forge depending on availability.

Please note: Public dates for this class require at least 2 guests to run. In the unlikely event that we don't reach this number, we'll cancel the class; in this case we'll inform you and allow you to get a refund or reschedule, so please watch your email/SMS one day prior to the class.
What you'll get
  • All materials and tools are provided.
  • We provide your PPE, including aprons, gloves, safety glasses (we have over-glasses safety glasses as well), and ear defenders.
  • Anything you make is yours to take home, and you're welcome to take photographs or any other form of recordings.
  • Tea, coffee, and biscuits will be provided!
Knowledge required
Beginner-friendly.
What to bring
  • You will be required to wear stout footwear, ideally steel toe cap boots.
  • Rubber boots and riggers are not suitable.
  • Please wear sensible clothing, nothing synthetic or flammable (we are working with fire).
  • Non-baggy jeans and close-fitting cotton T-shirts/workwear are advisable.
  • Long hair will need to be tied back, and any jewellery removed. Thank you!
  • Work of Iron is based at The Pitt, which hosts an incredible selection of food vendors (opening hours are Friday–Sunday) -- if your course runs outside of these days, it's advised to bring a packed lunch as the nearest shop/café is a 15-minute drive away.
Session repeats

This class series runs over 2 consecutive days.


FAQ

What time should I arrive for my course?
Courses start at 10am unless we have made a prior agreement. Please arrive ten minutes before the course so we can get everyone signed in. Failure to arrive on time can impact how much you accomplish during the course.
How do I get a refund?
For all course at Work of Iron, a cancellation and full refund can be obtained up to 2weeks before the course starts. We will only refund the full amount paid to us and this will not be extended to any consequential loss. For bookings wanting to cancel after the 2weeks full refund period and before the course starts, it would be encouraged that the participant sends a friend or family member in their place. A reschedule will be offered if Work of Iron is able to do so. We regret that the booking will be lost entirely should the place not be filled or able to be rescheduled.
Is there an age limit on the courses?
Participants must be age 18+ for insurance purposes. We offer a variety of courses designed specifically for 11 to 17-year-olds, and it is required that a parent or guardian remains present at all times during the sessions.
See more FAQs   
What should I wear for my course?
You will be required to wear stout footwear ideally steel toe cap boots. Rubber boots and riggers are not suitable. The boot needs to protect against anything dropping into or onto them and aid stability in the workshop. Please wear sensible clothing, nothing synthetic or flammable (we are working with fire). Non baggy jeans and close-fitting cotton T-shirts/work wear is advisable. Long hair will need to be tied back, and any jewellery removed. We provide the rest of your PPE including aprons, gloves, safety glasses (we have over glasses safety glasses as well) and ear defenders.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
You will need to be wearing suitable clothing and feel free to bring your own additional PPE (we do provide PPE please see the COURSE INFO page). For day courses, the Pitt Market is open 12noon - 9pm Friday - Sunday, if your course runs outside of these hours it's advisable to bring a pack lunch. There are no easily accessible shops within the 1 hour break (unless you're driving), so please come prepared. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided.
How do I get to Work of Iron?
Find us in The Pitt Warehouse at 20 West Shore Road, Granton, Edinburgh, EH5 1QD. When you arrive follow the signs from west shore road down to the promenade (cycle path), carry on past the entrance to Soul Saunas and The Pitt Market along the sea front until you reach the yellow shutter doors, come on in we're next door to Pitt Strength!
Is blacksmithing dangerous?
It is important to understand that the craft involves some moderately hazardous activities. Its common to experience minor burns and blisters when working in a forge. We take health and safety very seriously so it is important to read our COURSE INFO page before visiting Work of Iron.
Can I make a chefs knife or a sword?
We do not allow anyone to make their own knives or weapons on the open access. We also abide by the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 Knife Dealer’s Licence and the Offensive Weapons Act 2019
Location

Work Of Iron - The Forge On The Firth Of Forth, The Pitt Market, 20 West Shore Road, Granton, Edinbu

GETTING HERE - Arriving by car? If your traveling by car we don’t have a car park but there is unrestricted parking along West Shore Road. The Pitt can be accessed via public transport. Bus Lothian is Edinburgh’s local bus provider, you can check timetables and status updates on their website and plan your journey using their journey planner. The closest bus stops to The Pitt are on Waterfront Avenue and Waterfront Broadway, then it’s a short 10 minutes walk down Spiers Bruce Way to us. There are signs to direct you. Bus routes from City Centre: 8 | 14 | 16 | 24 | 27 | X29 | 47 | 113 Leith: 16 | 200 From the West: | 200 Blackford | Morningside | Gorgie | Corstorphine: 38 Tram Edinburgh’s tram runs from the Airport to Newhaven. Newhaven is the nearest stop, from there change to the number 16 or 200 bus. You can check tram timetables and status updates at Edinburgh Trams, Train Edinburgh has two train stations – Waverley in the East End of the city centre and Haymarket in the West End of the city centre. From either train station, change to one of the bus routes listed. Cycle We have bike parking available at the Granton Promenade entrance, and we’re on the Water of Leith to Crammond Cycle path. Walking The cycle path is also a walking path. Taxi Uber is available in Edinburgh, or you can call a black cab from – Central Taxis on 0131 229 2468 or City Cabs on 0131 229 1211.

Blacksmithing Class: The Carpenters Axe location
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Work of Iron
Work of Iron

5.0 (1)
Instagram followers 5k followers

We are a community interest company producing some of the most progressive forgework projects in the UK.
The forge in Granton is a state-of-the art facility designed to enable basic - advanced levels of contemporary blacksmithing as well as a space to find inspiration from the library, masterclasses, forge-ins and much more. We support professional practices, hobbyists, students and people just looking for a one off experience. The sole function of our tooling and equipment is to be used for the craft of blacksmithing. Contrary to popular belief we don't make weapons, horse shoes or pour molten metal, work like that is carried out by bladesmiths, farriers and foundries, effectively they are completely different trades. Work of Iron is focused on blacksmithing practice for the modern day, creating a wide range of objects such as gates, tools and furniture to sculpture, film props and costume.
Our aim is simple, sharing knowledge and providing a space for people to do blacksmithing. The outcome of this aim has multiple levels of positive impacts. From individuals benefiting physically, mentally and emotionally to social and personal development. On another level we preserve and promote Scotland's cultural heritage and then on another level again we stand for innovation and the importance of craftsmanship in today's world. At the beginning of 2025 we crowdfunded our start-up costs and created the ‘Access fund’ which can now be used to subsidize courses which in turn removes any financial barriers people may have to participate in the courses at Work of Iron. We are committed to acting fair and honest in all of our business practices and to create a safe and welcoming environment for people to come along and experience blacksmithing.

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class 1E57MXLBSX b30fa37a8c654059964d2a78c24cea95 production edinburgh Edinburgh Scotland GB edinburgh