Flat Jaw Tongs
September 25-27, 2026
Instructor: Haley Arbour
In this class, students can expect to become comfortable working at the anvil and with a power hammer. Tong geometry and forging efficiency will be discussed. Working at the anvil, we will develop the ability to execute clean, intentional isolations of mass. Half-faced hammer blows, symmetrical forging, as well as tapering and riveting are all techniques that will drive this class. The challenge will be to forge two identical tong blanks that we will assemble and use! Students will leave this class with a set of flat jaw tongs and the ability to make more.
-
Personal Protective Equipment
All Students attending workshops are required to have the appropriate PPE while working in the Nearside shop:
Eye Protection Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection either Safety Certified Ear Muffs or Ear Plugs
Closed Toe shoes or preferably CSA Steel Toe Safety Footwear
Gloves - Heavy leather gardening gloves or welding gloves
We strongly encourage:
Wearing clothes you can work in - Cotton or natural fibers - non melting fabric choices
Nothing too loose or with dangling strings that could get in the way, or caught in machinery
Bringing a notebook and a writing utensil, a water bottle, and a good attitude!
Lunch:
Baker street and its amenities as well as local cafes and restaurants are all within walking distance of the shop. You can bring a packed lunch and eat on campus or in the park across the street
If you have any questions, just reach out: info@nearsidearts.org