Blacksmithing FAQs

Please schedule on the lower limit of expected attendance when booking a private session: We recommend registering 80% of your expected headcount. We’re super flexible about increasing the number of participants (we’ll charge the difference after your experience), but it’s troublesome when you overestimate! You’re entitled to a refund for a maximum of 3 ‘no-shows’ regardless of group size.

No. A private group must select one curriculum (no mix and matching).

Our classes are open to ages 6 and above, although we encourage parents to use their discretion. Based on our experience, most children aged 11 or 12 can complete the project with minimal assistance. For children aged 15 and younger, a reservation must include an accompanying adult.

We offer military, NPO, and youth discounts. Please reach out for details.

The minimum charge for a private booking covers up to 5 participants. Any additional participants will be charged at the individual rate for the booked class.

You’re welcome to stay and watch if you’re not participating.

Yes, we do! Our gift cards never expire!

Please check out the Gift Cards page for details.

All experiences are 3 hours in duration.

No experience required! The vast majority of our students have never held a hammer, and they all do great. Our experiences are accessible to all ages, genders, backgrounds, physicality, and interests. Think you’re too weak or uncoordinated for our classes? You’re mistaken. Give us the opportunity to surprise you.

Any two people may register for one reservation/seat if they’d like to make a single item together.

100% safe. We do not use any harsh chemicals. We’ve had many pregnant students (some at nearly full term) and there have been zero issues. We are happy to provide a chair at the station in case of any needed breaks during the activity.

No. All necessary safety gear is provided at the shop.

• CLOSED TOED SHOES (sneakers are fine but absolutely no sandals, flipflops, high heels, etc.)
• Cotton pants (jeans) are preferred but shorts or leggings are acceptable.
• Short OR long sleeve cotton tee-shirts recommended.
• Please avoid synthetics.

We can try to customize an experience if you have particular time/budget/interest constraints. Please contact us and provide details.

Accessible for a wide range of physical disabilities/injuries/sickness: Please inquire if you have concerns and please provide a notice of special needs upon registration.

Cancellations made greater than 21 calendar days prior to event will receive a full refund; Cancellations made within 21 calendar days will incur a 50% fee. Contact us for cancellation.

You may reschedule up to 72 hours prior to your reservation at no additional cost; Rescheduling within 72 hours will incur a 20% fee. Contact us to reschedule.

Yes, please use the parking lot on the left side when facing the building. We strongly encourage carpooling for larger groups. Thank you for your cooperation!

Customers attending private classes must arrange any food and beverages with us prior to their event date. Please reach out via phone or email.

Customers attending public classes are welcome to bring light snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. However, considering the nature of the forging activities, we kindly request customers to keep snacking to a minimum.

We’ve recently moved into this new building , which offers more parking and a larger space. We’re currently working with a signage company to get our business sign installed as quickly as possible. Thank you for your patience and understanding!

Our new address – 22611 Markey Ct., Unit 106, Sterling, VA 20166

The only item you may fly with as carry on is the bottle opener. All other items must either be placed in checked luggage or mailed. We’re happy to ship your item(s) for you: $10/box; each box can fit at least 10 items; expect ~5 days from class date to delivery.

1. It’s best never to dishwash your item since it can damage from bouncing around. Furthermore the item may rust in the dishwasher.
2. When you get home wash your item with warm, soapy water.
3. Dry your item immediately and thoroughly, otherwise rusting will occur rapidly.
4. After drying, coat your item with a thin layer of coconut oil (using a paper towel or tissue) to prevent rusting. Any food-safe oil will do, though coconut oil is great because it’s cheap, available, food-safe, delicious, and doesn’t easily go rancid.
5. If rusting does occur, simply scrub the affected area using steel wool, a metal brush, sandpaper, or a rough bristle pad. Wash, dry, and coat with oil.
6. To sharpen, it’s best to use a wet stone. You can find good options on Amazon for less than $20!
7. Alternatively, you may email us to schedule a time for a free cleaning

Yes, we offer open shop hours to customers who have attended at least one of our classes. Please see our Meetup page for open shop schedule and price.