forestART
Traditional Joinery - 5 Point Grill
with Matt Jenkins & Cloverdale Forge
June 6-8th, 2025
Registration - $595
+ Meals ($180) & Kit Fee ($37)
During this intermediate workshop, participants will forge and assemble a small grill using traditional joinery techniques. Throughout the weekend, multiple methods for designing, forging, and forming hot steel will be discussed and demonstrated.
Participants are encouraged to design a grill and submit drawings for review before the workshop date. This workshop is intermediate-level. To register, participants must have a hands-on understanding of blacksmithing's fundamental tools and techniques.
About Matt Jenkins
Matt Jenkins (Cloverdale Forge) is dedicated to designing and forging highly crafted work. For over 25 years, he has honed his skills and learned traditional blacksmith techniques while studying with master smiths. He has placed twice at the World Forging Championship in Stia, Italy. In 2016 he designed and forged a different style hook every day of the year; this exhibit toured internationally in 2022/2023. The project is now a book, HOOKED. Between custom projects and wholesale orders, Matt demonstrates and leads workshops on blacksmithing across North America.
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Learn more about Matt Jenkins here:
Cloverdale Forge Website
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What is Provided
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metal
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coal forges
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blacksmith coal
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anvils on stands
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leg/post vises
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swage block
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several tongs
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slack tubs
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several chisels and punches, swages and fullers
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soap stone markers
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wire brushes
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hack saws
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hammers
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What to Bring
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leather and cotton clothing (no synthetics)
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leather footwear
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safety eyewear
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hearing protection
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hat or bandanna (optional)
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thermal mug / water bottle
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note/sketch book
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Other Important Information
Safety Gear
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for blacksmithing is mostly common sense. Cotton and leather clothing, no synthetics that melt in high heat or spark.
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Safety eyeware is highly recommended. Non-prescription safety glasses are easily available. A larger version or goggles can be used over prescription glasses.
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Gloves help protect you from burns and blisters. Snug fitting leather gloves offer better dexterity and control while a much looser fit can be flung off in a single motion if required. Some blacksmiths wears a glove on his left hand and almost never on his right (hammer) hand.
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Hearing protection is a must. Disposable roll-up foam earplugs or the over-the-ear cup-style hearing defenders; both are fine.
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Many smiths employ a leather apron or chaps. Canadian Tire, Lee Valley and sometimes Princess Auto sell leather aprons.
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Headgear keeps ash from the coal fire out of your hair. A hat, bandana or no head gear is your choice.
Hammers
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Blacksmith hammers have do not have completely flat faces and no sharp edges. All surfaces are radiused.
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We will supply a wide variety (shape and weight) of hammers for you to experiment with. You are encouraged to change hammers often to discover their various forms and applications and to find your favourite weight/style.
Burns
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Small superficial burns are almost inevitable when staring out. Be assured that if you accidentally touch hot steel you will quickly let go and harm will be minimal if any. A bit of burn ointment and a coffee break take care of most mishaps. Best practice is to assume all metal is hot until you know otherwise. In groups we always insist you put hot steel on the ground under the coal forge.
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How to Get Here
Our classes take place at the Ness Creek Site. Click here to download directions or If you prefer a little technological assistance during your adventures, look up “Ness Creek Site” on Google Maps. Keep in mind, though, that you might lose signal as you get closer to the site.
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Optional Meal Add-On
Details coming soon!
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Accommodations
Please book directly with Ness Core
