July 12-18
July 12, 2026
Taylor got a great start on his first damascus! He started with an 11 layer billet, and did the first 2 forge welds to make 22 layers. The goal is a 44 layer kitchen knife.
July 12, 2026
Henry and Lee started their blacksmithing journey by making "S" hooks! They did so well that had time to make a second one. Henry forged a J-hook, while Lee made a meat hook to use on his farm.
July 14, 2026
Great welding class this morning with these brothers! They were so creative with their pencil holder designs!This was another Allegan County 4-H class, sponsored by Michigan State University Extension. We have a full week of welding, and blacksmithing ahead!
July 15, 2026
Matthew and his nephew Jared started their billet knives yesterday, and finished them up today. They did so well yesterday that we were able to get a little more creative with the handles. Jared picked a beautiful purple handle from the secret stash. And Matthew brought some antler in for his handle. Really great job by both of them!
July 16, 2026
The 4H welding class this morning became a mother-son welding class! You know I always say that as long as the weld holds, it's a good weld. But these two also has some really good looking welds, especially for their first time ever welding!
July 17, 2026
Fun group this morning for the Basic Blacksmithing class, arranged by the Allegan County 4-H, and sponsored by Michigan State University Extension! They learned the basic skills of Blacksmithing by forging an "S" hook.
July 17, 2026
It was a busy 4-H day! Blacksmithing in the morning, and then another group in the afternoon for Steel Flowers! A few kids did both classes today. They learned plasma, cold shaping steel, and welding, and made beautiful flowers! Really nice group of kids today!
July 18, 2026
3-Generations Knifemaking! Great family this morning made Scary Cheese Knives as a combination birthday/Christmas gift. The knives turned out really beautiful!
July 18, 2026
Kevin and Marissa were back today to start their first Damascus knives! It was hot, but they both did great! They did the initial forge welding, plus another fold. Next time Kevin has another fold, and Marissa will start shaping her blade!
