1-Day Blacksmithing Experience: Make Your Own Kitchen Knife
Description
Join us for a one-day introduction to the art of blacksmithing and hand-forging, led by master bladesmith Jacek Robótka of Jorgen Craft. In this hands-on course, you’ll learn the essential techniques needed to forge a small kitchen knife inspired by a Viking-era blade found in Birka, Sweden (grave Bj 903). What you'll learn: Starting with fire control and hammering techniques, you’ll work with carbon steel to create your very own knife. The day includes: - Blade and tang forging: shape the blade and forge the tang (the portion that extends into the handle). - Bevel forging: Work the edge down to a thin section and forge the bevel (angled surface along the blade). - Heat treatment: Learn the three stages of heat-treating your blade — normalising, hardening, and tempering. - Blade finishing: Use a grinder to clean up your blade, fit it to a pre-made handle, and finally sharpen and strop the edge to razor sharpness. By the end of the day, you’ll take home a fully finished, sharp kitchen knife that’s ready for a lifetime of use. No experience required: This course is beginner-friendly, and we’ll guide you step-by-step through key skills, including: - Forge safety and using the gas forge, hammer, and anvil. - Shaping the blade and forging the tang and bevel. - Heat treatment (normalising, hardening, tempering). - Attaching the handle, blade finishing, sharpening, stropping, and edge testing. Who can attend: The course is open to anyone 18 and over. Younger participants are welcome if accompanied by a parent or guardian. If you have any specific requirements, please let us know in advance. What to bring: - Non-flammable clothing (cotton or wool is recommended; avoid synthetic materials like shell suits and fleeces). - Sturdy shoes (leather is ideal). - Your own lunch (not provided). - Safety equipment: all necessary safety gear will be provided for the class. Course details: Location: Leeds (Full address provided upon booking). Duration: 9 AM – 5 PM. Parking: On-street parking available. Gift certificates: Looking for a unique gift? We offer electronic gift certificates upon request — a perfect present for anyone interested in learning the ancient craft of bladesmithing. This is a perfect opportunity to try your hand at bladesmithing and create something both beautiful and practical. At the end of the day, you’ll leave with a handcrafted knife you’ve made from start to finish.
Duration
8 hours
Cancellation policy
Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts
Maker
I’m Jacek Robotka, the blacksmith behind Jorgen Craft. My journey into blacksmithing started with curiosity and a love for working with my hands. What began as a small experiment with metal and fire quickly grew into a lifelong passion. There’s something deeply satisfying about taking a raw piece of steel and shaping it into something beautiful and lasting — it connects you to centuries of craftsmanship and tradition. Over the years, I’ve created everything from swords, spears, and knives to decorative pieces, always guided by a respect for traditional methods and a desire to keep this craft alive. Teaching came naturally once I saw how people light up when they strike their first spark or shape their first piece of metal. My workshops are about more than just learning technique — they’re about the experience of the forge, the rhythm of the hammer, and the joy of creating something with your own hands.
Suitable for
- Adults
- Seniors
- Teenagers
- Christmas
- Stag dos
- UK Holiday
- Easter
- Hen dos
- Spooky
- Corporate days out & team building
- Father's Day
- School holiday workshops & activities
- Romantic
- Engagement, birthdays & anniversaries
- Mother's Day
- Suitable for beginners
FAQs
For safety reasons, participants must be 18 or older (under 18s accompanied by an adult). Please contact us if you’re unsure — we’re happy to advise.
We understand plans can change. Please get in touch as early as possible — we’ll do our best to move your booking to another suitable date.
The forge is based in Leeds, Yorkshire. There’s easy access and nearby parking.
Yes — we offer private tuition, couple sessions, and small group experiences. These can be tailored to your interests or special occasions.
Yes, our courses make great gifts! You can either book a date or purchase a gift voucher so the recipient can choose a time that suits them.
Yes — safety is our top priority. You’ll be fully briefed before starting, and all forging is supervised. We keep class sizes small so everyone gets personal guidance.
Absolutely! Everything you make is yours to take home — a unique, hand-forged piece made entirely by you.
Tea, coffee, and refreshments are provided. Please bring your own lunch or snacks — there’s a short break during the day to eat and rest.
Please wear cotton or natural-fibre clothing, long trousers, and sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots. Avoid synthetic materials. We’ll provide safety glasses, gloves, and protective gear.
Our main experiences run as full-day workshops (usually around 8 hours including breaks). Shorter sessions and private bookings can be arranged on request.
Depending on the course you book, you’ll forge either your own kitchen knife, axe, fire steel, or decorative piece to take home at the end of the day.
No experience is needed! All our courses are designed for complete beginners as well as those who’ve tried blacksmithing before. You’ll get full guidance and hands-on support throughout the day.
