Intro to Bladesmithing

With Forged in Fire Champion Jeremiah Backhaus

This one-day class is an introduction to the forged blade. You will start with a piece of steel and through the course of the day will change it to a knife. The style of knife is commonly called a "blacksmith knife" and will be a one-piece blade and handle. Jeremiah will be readily on hand for this one-on-one

experience to take you through this process, so the complete novice need not be afraid! The slightly

experienced can be challenged through design with this "simple" knife. The more engaged will enjoy deeper discussions of the science of the forging and heat-treating process. The day of the class is scheduled directly with the client to work with scheduling. Weekends and weekdays are available. The day begins at 8 am and continues until the work is done (this varies depending on the aptitude of the student). In the end, you will have an experience that will last a lifetime, and a blade which, (when taken care of properly) will last longer!

Jeremiah Backhaus is a blacksmith based in West Bend, Wisconsin. Born and raised in Alaska, he expressed an interest in metalwork very early. He built his first forge at the age of 11 and started a fire that hasn't gone out. He went to Wisconsin for school and met Dan Nauman of Bighorn Forge. Jeremiah proceeded to spend as much time as he could with Dan and a friendship quickly struck up between the two. Jeremiah was able to help with a few notable projects for Dan, including a gold metal winning restoration job in Ohio. In 2017, Jeremiah won his individual award by being on Forged in Fire on the History channel. His episode (Viking Edition season 4 episode 23) showed his love of history and forging.

He has since taught many forging classes and hopes that his love and passion comes through in his classes.

Items for a student to bring:

? Safety glasses

? Leather shoes

? Cotton based clothing

? Gloves (optional)

? Hearing protection (optional)

? Lunch is provided

Donor Value: $300