Introduction to blacksmithing – Courting Candle

Description

This three hour hands on class will introduce you to blacksmithing and working with hot iron to make useful objects. You will learn techniques like drawing out, bending, and more to create a courting candle to take home with you. We will also cover correct hammer technique, and use of anvils, vises, and tongs.

I will show you how to forge traditional finials from hot steel. After forging a decorative handle, we will hot form the base of the candlestick using a torch, bending forks, and scrolling dogs! The spiral for the candle will be formed using cold techniques and specialized custom made jigs. After assembling the various parts made, you will have a beautiful courting candle to take home and use at all your best occasions and for your special guests.

History and lore of the courting candle

In the 19th century, courting candles were used by the man of the home to set boundaries for his daughter. When the daughter’s suitor came calling, the father lit the candle in a sitting room. When the candles burnt to the metal at the top of the candle holder, it was time for the suitor to promptly leave. However, the father could change the height of the candle based on how comfortable he felt about the suitor. 

Class will meet on Tuesday or Thursday at 5.30pm-8.30pm or Saturdays 1.00pm-4.00pm

(Price includes a $20 materials fee)

The class is open to students of all skill levels and each class is limited to 6 students. Please note that classes are co-ed unless otherwise indicated.

Expect to leave with basic forging skills and the knowledge needed to forge hot steel. If you have prior experience this class will help you refresh your skills.

This class will take place in The British Blacksmith forge located at
8477 Pools Brook Road
Kirkville NY 13082

The forge is 20 mins east of Syracuse NY and easy to get to from all locations it is close to I-81 and the New York Thruway I-90.

If you would like any more details, please look at the “classes” page which will probably answer any questions you may have.

If you have any questions please email me at mark@thebritishblacksmith.com