Metal Adult Classes
Groundworks’ metal classes teach forging, welding, and cutting techniques that range from ancient to modern. In a forging class you might make a spatula, a hook, or something entirely decorative. Welding classes focus on fusing metal with precision and control. All skill levels are welcome, and our instructors make the process approachable without watering it down.
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Session 6 Registration
All classes will be available for registration Monday, September 21 at 8:00am.
You can view specific class information and descriptions by following the class link in the drop down menus. You can also view the entire Session 6 class catalog.
Please review our standard refund policy before registering.
We offer scholarships!
You can apply and receive up to two scholarships annually for 50% off the cost of a class. Pay What You Can classes do not qualify (but you can save even more by signing up for one). Scholarship applications will close one week prior to registration opening.
Please fill out a scholarship application.
Multi-Studio Crossover Classes
Holiday Decorations in Clay, Wood, Glass & Metal
Ready to deck your halls? Groundworks has you covered! We're offering a brand new multi-studio crossover class that will help you get your holiday cheer on by hand-crafting some holiday objects to bring the joy of the season to your home.
Over the course of eight weeks, you will spend time in four of our studios: Clay, Wood, Glass, and Metal making a series of seasonal objects and learning a whole bunch of fun and approachable techniques in each of those art forms. In Clay, you'll spend two days learning hand-building and glazing; in Wood, you'll learn to make things on the bandsaw and lathe; followed by two days in Glass learning about fusing and flamework. We will finish up with two days in the Metal Studio where we will do some welding and a little bit of blacksmithing. Ho ho holy cow that's a lot of fun!
Thursdays 6:00-9:00pm
Dates: October 22 - December 17 (No class November 26)
Instructor: Chris Westbrook
Location: Main (3750 Canfield Street)
Ages: 16+
Cost: $500 (includes all tools and materials)
Metalworking Classes
4-Week Sampler Classes
Looking to find your creative spark in our Metal Studio, but not sure what’s going to light your fire? Try a Studio Sampler! This class introduces students to the fundamentals of metal fabricating processes. Techniques explored will include welding, sheet metal work, use of an oxy-fuel torch, and blacksmithing. Don’t be intimidated, these classes are especially for beginners - and best of all, they’re Pay What You Can!
4-Week Level I Classes
Blacksmithing, welding, cold working - what’s in a name? A lot, actually! These are the three fundamental areas of focus in metalworking, and luck for you, we’ve got a whole slate of classes for you to choose from. These classes are perfect for beginners or more seasoned metalworkers alike!
Do you want to forge a path in blacksmithing? Our Level I Blacksmithing class will help you develop crucial skills around shop safety, fire management, tools and equipment, and appropriate use of the anvil, as well as an introduction to object-making.
Or maybe you’d rather explore the wide world of welding? Level I Welding will walk you through the essentials of safely and effectively working with a wire-feed (MIG) welder to join steel.
New Two-Part Class!
This beginner level two-part series will introduce students to the fundamentals of blacksmithing through forging a matching skillet and spatula.
Take both to complete your set, or take just one if you prefer!
8-Week Level II Welding Sculptures
In this Level II welding sculptures class, students will explore the construction of geometric forms by combining various fabrication processes to assemble a complex steel sculpture.
The course guides students through the entire creative cycle, from initial design, layout, and joint-preparation techniques to final detailing. Participants will expand their cutting skills using a bandsaw, plasma cutter, and cutoff wheel, while studying how materials intersect in different structural configurations. By building upon foundational welding skills, students will learn to fit and weld multiple pieces together, finishing their multi-faceted forms with handheld grinders and sanding equipment to create smooth, clean surfaces. These versatile techniques can be used to fabricate steel sculptures and complex objects of any scale for both indoor and outdoor display.
This is a level II class and and welding experience is needed.