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Three evenings at a coal forge in Hillsborough teach fundamental blacksmithing skills to women and non-binary adults. Small classes, hands-on projects, and instructor Angela Eastman make this a safe, empowering entry point into metalwork.
Three evenings at a coal forge in Hillsborough teach fundamental blacksmithing skills to women and non-binary adults. Small classes, hands-on projects, and instructor Angela Eastman make this a safe, empowering entry point into metalwork.
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Operated by Woodcrest Farm & Forge · Hillsborough, North Carolina
Step up to the coal forge and feel the heat of a skill older than the industrial age, refined for a modern maker. The Women/Non Binary Beginner Forge Series in Hillsborough, North Carolina offers three evenings of hands-on blacksmithing instruction where participants shape steel, learn traditional techniques, and leave with finished projects each week. Taught by Angela Eastman, the class is open to women and non-binary adults 18+ and capped at five students, creating a focused, encouraging environment ideal for beginners.
Held in Hillsborough, a small town in North Carolina’s Piedmont, the series uses coal forges, anvils, hammers, and tongs to teach fundamental forging techniques: drawing out and tapering, basic bends, punching and drifting, and simple decorative finishes. The work is project-based — expect to forge hooks, bottle openers, or a simple hand tool over the three sessions — so you walk away with both new skills and tangible pieces. The intimate group size gives Angela time to demonstrate, correct form, and tailor instruction to different learning speeds.
This course stands out in the local outdoor recreation and craft scene because it brings elemental, hands-on metalwork to a rural setting that’s otherwise known for trails and river recreation. The blacksmith shop’s coal fire, ringing anvil, and tactile rhythm of hammer on steel provide a distinct counterpoint to the area’s outdoor pursuits. For residents and visitors staying in Hillsborough, the class offers a chance to engage with regional craft culture, learn a durable artisan skill, and connect with a small creative community.
Safety and skill-building are emphasized. Students will practice safe forge behavior, proper hammering stance, and heat- and metal-handling protocols from the first night. The course is designed for newcomers but does require comfort with standing for extended periods and working near high heat.
Practical details: the series meets three consecutive Wednesdays from 6–9pm; ages 12–17 may attend only with a responsible adult. No prior blacksmithing experience is required. What you bring is minimal — sturdy shoes and closed-toe footwear are strongly recommended — while tools and protective equipment are provided.
Whether you’re curious about metalwork, seeking a craft-based evening away from screens, or want to build a new maker skill, this beginner forge series delivers hands-on learning, a supportive atmosphere, and projects that prove you can shape steel as reliably as you shape memories. Expect hands-on demonstrations, individual coaching, and incremental skills that set a foundation for future intermediate work; many students return for advanced open forge nights or private lessons to expand techniques. Enrollment is limited to keep personalized attention high, so book early if you want a spot in the next three-week cycle. Workshops typically fill with local makers and travelers who value time-tested craft over fast consumption.
No—this beginner series assumes no previous blacksmithing experience and focuses on foundational skills.
Open to adults 18+. Students aged 12–17 may attend only if accompanied by a responsible adult.
Yes—basic tools, forge time, and protective equipment are provided during the sessions.
The course is project-based; typical projects include hooks, bottle openers, or simple hand tools that you take home each week.
Instructors emphasize safe forge behavior, correct stances, and metal-handling protocols from the first session.
Classes are capped at five students to ensure individual instruction and close supervision.
Woodcrest Farm & Forge, located in Hillsborough, North Carolina, offers hands-on farm and blacksmithing experiences for children, teens, and adults. The farm runs multiple 12-week seasonal camps—including Monday Farm Camp and Wednesday Farm Camp—where children aged 6–11 and 9–14 meet and care for goats, rabbits, pigs, chickens, cats, and dogs, join farm chores, plant vegetables, explore ponds, hike, and learn about nature rain or shine. Teenagers can join Wilderness Skills Camp to develop fire building, shelter making, navigation, and first aid skills under expert guidance. Blacksmithing at Woodcrest combines beginner-friendly instruction and project-focused workshops. Offerings include youth and teen blacksmithing camps for ages 12–17, a Wednesday Teen Blacksmithing Camp, a Level 1 Barbecue Fork class, and the TONGS: Flat Jaw full-day forging workshop. The Garden Tools Series and Women/Non-Binary Beginner Forge Series provide multi-session skill progression in coal forge techniques with Angela Eastman leading several hands-on sessions. All classes supply tools, materials, and safety gear as listed in specific programs. Programs emphasize safety, skill development, and outdoor learning. Camp schedules include weekly sessions such as the Wednesday Farm Camp from 10am to 2pm and 12-week formats for multiple camps. Families and adult learners choose Woodcrest for its combination of traditional farm life, professional blacksmith instruction, and progressive skill-building designed for varying ages and experience levels. Workshops often include breaks such as the midday picnic during the TONGS: Flat Jaw full-day class, and several adult series are open to learners 18+, offering step‑by‑step progression and the opportunity to take projects home.
Book with Woodcrest Farm & Forge
