Balcones Forge Meeting Info
Meetings are open to everyone -- you do not have to be a member to attend, but to participate in any activities, you must be a member.
Meetings are usually held on the second Saturday of each month and usually start at 9:00
but subject to change.
Be sure to check the schedule below.
BRING YOUR SAFETY GLASSES -- REQUIRED
Membership is not required to attend meetings, but must be a
current member to forge or participate in any blacksmithing activities.
Sign-In sheet must also be signed at each meeting.
Parents/guardians must accompany minor children when participating.
Other things to bring:
Hearing protection, notepad, camera, folding chair/bleacher seat cushion,
drinking water, "Iron in the Hat" auction item, "show-n-tell" item,
trade item/competition item. Competition items are creations that take time and effort,
so you get to keep your item. Sometimes the items are judged and prizes awarded.
Safety and Participation Guidelines for Forging Activities
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, please adhere to the following rules:
Membership Required: A current, paid Balcones Forge Membership is mandatory for participation.
Sign-In Required: All attendees must sign in on the Meeting/Event Sign-in Sheet. If multiple members wish to use the forge, they must sign up for a time slot on the Forge Use Sign-in Sheet. Guardians must sign this form for themselves and any participating minors.
Safety First: All individuals using a forge must wear appropriate safety gear, including flame-resistant pants and shirts, closed-toe shoes (leather preferred), and safety glasses.
Age Restrictions and Supervision of Minors: Participants must be at least 12 years old to receive forging instruction and must have a parent or guardian present at the forge. All minors must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian at all times during the meeting/event.
Instructor's Directions: Participants must follow the instructor's directions at all times.
No Swords, No Weapons: We will not be making swords, knives or weapons of any kind.
Enjoy and Learn: Have fun and learn!
------
March 22
Pioneer Museum
Trade Item — Plant Hanger
and/or
Swivel Hook
Fredericksburg
9:00 AM
How to Get There
------
April 12
FolkFest
Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture
Trade Item — TBD
New Braunfels
9:00 AM
------
May 10
Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture
Competition Item — Tongs
Plenty of time to perfect them
[Tongs do not have to be this size — :) ]
New Braunfels
9:00 AM
Remember -- "The only reason a blacksmith will not tell you something — he or she is about to show you."
