Blacksmithing - Flint Strikers with Nick Barber

Step back in time and experience the art of traditional metalworking. Flint Strikers with Nick Barber is a hands‑on blacksmithing class that introduces participants to the fundamentals of forging while creating a practical, historic fire‑starting tool.

Participants will learn the basics of blacksmithing and will forge a historic-style steel strike‑a‑light that can be used with flint to produce sparks and start a fire. In addition, participants will learn how to make tinder and receive instruction on building and starting fires using their completed tool. Projects and instruction may vary depending on class pace, group size, and available time.

This class is ideal for anyone interested in traditional skills, metallurgy, outdoor survival, or hands‑on history—and no prior blacksmithing experience is required.

What to Expect:

During this class, participants will:

🔥 Learn foundational blacksmithing techniques such as heating, shaping, and hammering steel

⚒️ Forge a traditional item: Steel strike‑a‑light (flint striker)

🔥 Gain hands‑on experience at the forge, including proper tool use and safety practices

🌲 Learn to create tinder and understand the basics of fire‑starting

🔥 Practice using their finished striker with flint to produce sparks and build a fire

📜 Explore the historical importance of fire‑making tools and blacksmithing in daily life

🤝 Participate in an interactive and supportive workshop environment

The class environment is relaxed, informative, and designed to be engaging for learners of varying ages and experience levels.

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