Forge Your Own Axe - Blacksmithing Experience in Leeds

Forge your own Axe in a one-day blacksmithing course with master bladesmith Jacek Robótka in Leeds. In this one-day course, you will explore the fundamentals of blacksmithing and forge work, focusing on crafting a small axe head. Under the expert guidance of Jacek Robótka, you’ll learn the traditional “bow tie” method of axe construction, where a high-carbon steel edge is forge-welded into a softer iron body, which is then folded to form the axe’s eye. What you'll learn: Starting with fire control and hammering techniques, you’ll work with carbon steel to create your own axe head. Throughout the day, you’ll: - Forge the axe head: Shape the body and insert the high-carbon steel edge. - Forge welding: Weld the steel edge and iron body together. - Axe shaping: Shape the axe’s cutting edge and form the eye (the hole for the handle). - Heat treatment: Use three heat-treating processes—normalising, hardening, and tempering—to strengthen your axe head. - Finishing: Grind and clean the axe head, fit it to a pre-made wooden shaft, and sharpen and strop the blade to a razor-sharp edge. By the end of the course, you'll take home a fully finished and sharp axe, perfect for outdoor activities, survival, bushcraft, or historical reenactments. No experience necessary. This beginner-friendly course will guide you step-by-step through the entire process, including: - Forge safety and using the gas forge, hammer, and anvil. - Forming and forge welding a “bow tie” axe head. - Shaping and grinding the axe profile. - Heat treatment (normalising, hardening, tempering). - Blade finishing, sharpening, and edge testing. - Fitting the handle. Who can attend: The course is open to anyone aged 18 and over. Younger participants are welcome if accompanied by a parent or guardian. If you have any specific needs, please let us know ahead of time. What to bring: - Non-flammable clothing (cotton or wool is ideal; avoid synthetic fabrics like shell suits or fleeces). - Sturdy shoes (preferably leather). - Your own lunch (not provided). - Safety equipment: all required safety gear will be provided during the class. Course details: Location: Leeds (Full address provided upon booking). Duration: 9 AM – 5 PM. Parking: On-street parking available. Gift certificates: Electronic gift certificates are available upon request, making this course an excellent gift for anyone interested in learning the art of blacksmithing. This course is a perfect introduction to bladesmithing and axe making, giving you hands-on experience in traditional blacksmithing techniques and leaving you with a custom-made axe you can be proud of.