Crandall Writers, Fire Arts of Sacramento, and D.V. Education live here.

Metal Shop FAQs

Welcome

These are some of the questions that come up often. If I missed something, let me know, and I will fix it if I can.

The Basic Class

The Saturday Basic Class runs from 1:30 - 4:00, you would be welcomed then - I work with each individual taking into consideration their needs and abilities. Below are some answers to the questions I get asked, they should get you on the way to having enough information to move forward.

We have basic classes (and Open Forge) on Saturday afternoons (1:30 to 4:30 in the afternoon) and Open Forge on Tuesdays, and Thursdays, from 10 till 2. The time for the Basic classes is designed around teaching beginners who might need or want a little more guidance.

Open forge

The Open Forge is for current members who have a project that they work on but need minimal assistance. I am available for consultation during that time (during the week) but would prefer not to spend much time teaching (that is when I try to get some of my own work done). I ask that students let me know, by text, email, or phone, before the class that they plan on attending (we do get busy now and then).

Other Scheduling Information

My current schedule is morphing, but I am there and available for classes on Saturday afternoons. However, I am also on site Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 to 2. As I say below, I prefer to have beginners on Saturday but can accommodate a few people on Weekdays. And, I am working on revising my webpage. The address is 1415, C, 47th avenue at the intersection of Beauleuwood and 47th. Here is a link to a google map. We are in the back, through the red gate, beneath the cell tower. See you soon. *I just added Mondays and Fridays for the open shop (or a beginner or two). My hours on those days are still in flux. Mondays and Tuesdays (some Fridays) I can stay later but would like to know in advance (I might get lazy and go home early if I don't know anyone is coming).

Safety

When coming to the smithy, I suggest that everyone wear comfortable cotton clothing and sturdy boots/shoes. Eye and ear protection is a must. I have loaners, but you may prefer your own. If you have a hammer or other tools that you/he might want to use, bring them; otherwise, I have loaners. I have an ambivalence about the use of gloves but bring them if you think you will need them. I recommend cotton gardening gloves. Let me know if you have other concerns.

Cost

My current answer to the cost issue is that it costs at least $30 for me to entertain each Beginning Smith for each class. If it is within their means, some students do pay more, which I appreciate. This contribution helps cover costs for the Basic Class. For that, I will provide you with an anvil (as necessary), shared use of a forge, and hand tools, and mild square stock steel on which to practice. It is also the minimum if you are here for shop time. If your project requires other materials or the use of shop equipment (that you have demonstrated familiarity with), it will cost us (and you) more, so please include that as you calculate what you will leave as a contribution. If you have a special request or would like to have something done for you, please ask.
I accept just about any form of payment, including credit cards, which I process through PayPal - there are PayPal buttons on most of the pages on my web page. We do like Volunteers, so if you have a talent or skill, or time, I can help you put them to good use.

Tips to contact - John

If you need/want more information, please let me know. I respond fastest to texts, or phone (if I recognize the caller) then emails (I often get behind). If you plan on coming, please drop me a line and let me know what experience you might have, the type of work you do and what your Blacksmithing goals might be.

Questions/Concerns, just ask

Looking Forward

If you have any questions or concerns, please do contact me. If you want to drop by and see what we are up to, please feel free to drop by, the address is 1415 C, 47th Avenue. (We are in the back of the building off of Belleau Wood Lane, through the red gate in the far end).

We are always growing and changing. We will dedicate our efforts in 2019 to finalizing our Maker Space Offerings. Most of the equipment (some donated) is in place and useable. An overview of some of the areas of interest that are, or will be available are: