1-Day Blacksmithing Experience: Make Your Own Axe
Description
In this one-day course, you will explore the fundamentals of blacksmithing and forge work, focusing on crafting a small axe head. Under the expert guidance of Jacek Robótka, you’ll learn the traditional “bow tie” method of axe construction, where a high-carbon steel edge is forge-welded into a softer iron body, which is then folded to form the axe’s eye. What you'll learn: Starting with fire control and hammering techniques, you’ll work with carbon steel to create your own axe head. Throughout the day, you’ll: - Forge the axe head: Shape the body and insert the high-carbon steel edge. - Forge welding: Weld the steel edge and iron body together. - Axe shaping: Shape the axe’s cutting edge and form the eye (the hole for the handle). - Heat treatment: Use three heat-treating processes—normalising, hardening, and tempering—to strengthen your axe head. - Finishing: Grind and clean the axe head, fit it to a pre-made wooden shaft, and sharpen and strop the blade to a razor-sharp edge. By the end of the course, you'll take home a fully finished and sharp axe, perfect for outdoor activities, survival, bushcraft, or historical reenactments. No experience necessary. This beginner-friendly course will guide you step-by-step through the entire process, including: - Forge safety and using the gas forge, hammer, and anvil. - Forming and forge welding a “bow tie” axe head. - Shaping and grinding the axe profile. - Heat treatment (normalising, hardening, tempering). - Blade finishing, sharpening, and edge testing. - Fitting the handle. Who can attend: The course is open to anyone aged 18 and over. Younger participants are welcome if accompanied by a parent or guardian. If you have any specific needs, please let us know ahead of time. What to bring: - Non-flammable clothing (cotton or wool is ideal; avoid synthetic fabrics like shell suits or fleeces). - Sturdy shoes (preferably leather). - Your own lunch (not provided). - Safety equipment: all required safety gear will be provided during the class. Course details: Location: Leeds (Full address provided upon booking). Duration: 9 AM – 5 PM. Parking: On-street parking available. Gift certificates: Electronic gift certificates are available upon request, making this course an excellent gift for anyone interested in learning the art of blacksmithing. This course is a perfect introduction to bladesmithing and axe making, giving you hands-on experience in traditional blacksmithing techniques and leaving you with a custom-made axe you can be proud of.
Duration
8½ 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
- Spooky
- Corporate days out & team building
- Father's Day
- School holiday workshops & activities
- Romantic
- Engagement, birthdays & anniversaries
- Mother's Day
- Suitable for beginners
- Christmas
- Stag dos
- UK Holiday
- Easter
- Hen dos
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.
