Get a Grip: Forging Tongs Workshop
Adult | Registration opens 4/29/2026 8:00 PM EDT
In this workshop, students will learn the basic techniques of forging blacksmiths’ tongs. Every smith needs and being able to make and adjust tongs to fit the needs of the work is important. We will go through the basic process and explore different jaw styles that will enable you to hold multiple projects and stock configurations: flat, round, square and irregular pieces. This class will teach students the skills to make this crucial smith’s tool. This workshop is intended for students who have some forging experience and good hammer control but beginners are also welcome. We will concentrate on the forging of smaller tongs and students can expect to bring home 2 or 3 pairs.
Students will need safety glasses, dust mask or respirator, leather work gloves, (welding gauntlets not needed) and should wear jeans, a non-flammable cotton shirt and/or jacket, and closed-toed boots or leather shoes. Our forge is an outdoor building that is only semi-enclosed; please dress accordingly.
For full-day workshops, please bring a lunch to be on the safe side, as there may or may not be time to get food during a lunch break.
Students will need safety glasses, dust mask or respirator, leather work gloves, (welding gauntlets not needed) and should wear jeans, a non-flammable cotton shirt and/or jacket, and closed-toed boots or leather shoes. Our forge is an outdoor building that is only semi-enclosed; please dress accordingly.
For full-day workshops, please bring a lunch to be on the safe side, as there may or may not be time to get food during a lunch break.
Greg AmEnde
GREG AMENDE has been part-time/hobby blacksmith for 14 years. He has taken classes all over New England from some of the top blacksmiths in the US. He has worked as an interpreter blacksmith at numerous museums including working 4 years at Mystic Seaport. Greg works full time as a machining instructor at a Connecticut technical high school.