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:

  1. Membership Required: A current, paid Balcones Forge Membership is mandatory for participation.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. Instructor's Directions: Participants must follow the instructor's directions at all times.

  6. No Swords, No Weapons: We will not be making swords, knives or weapons of any kind.

  7. Enjoy and Learn: Have fun and learn!

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Extra Special Event

April 11
A day of Forging and Fun

Wendel Broussard

Wendel Broussard began his blacksmithing career full time in 1983 after a rewarding
and well established 12 year career in the high farrier service. Establishing his studio in
Smithville Texas, Wendel's interest in traditional repousse' led him to study in France
where he graduated from the school of repousse' at Les Compagnons Du Devoir in
Muizon in 1991.
His talent in ornamental ironwork has resulted in many commissions in private homes
and businesses around the country. Wendel has also demonstrated extensively
throughout the United States, sharing his proficiency of the French Repousse' methods.

Smithville, Texas

How to Get There

https://maps.app.goo.gl/JzP9LsjTLkqM6Aa98

9:00 AM

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Folk Fest

April 11
Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture

New Braunfels, Texas

How to Get There

https://maps.app.goo.gl/JzP9LsjTLkqM6Aa98

9:00 AM

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April 25
Official Monthly Meeting

Pioneer Farms

Austin, Texas
No Trade Item but Show’n’Tell
Camping Gear/Tools

See You There!

How to Get There

https://maps.app.goo.gl/JzP9LsjTLkqM6Aa98

9:00 AM

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Remember -- "The only reason a blacksmith will not tell you something — he or she is about to show you."