MakeHaven, a community makerspace in New Haven, Connecticut, hosts Introduction to Induction on Sunday, Nov. 15, from 3 to 7:30 p.m. The hands-on class uses induction heat to teach blacksmithing basics, and it is aimed at people with no forging experience. It matters because the four-person cap makes it one of the smaller beginner workshops on the region's community calendar.

What happens in the class

Participants work in the forge with instructor Ken Cotrona, learning to cut, taper, twist, bend and shape heated steel using traditional techniques. Each person designs and makes a custom piece, choosing between a decorative wand and a functional BBQ fork. The session also covers the science and process behind induction heating. All materials, reference images, tools, materials and safety gear are included, according to the event listing.

Why you should go

  • It suits complete beginners. The listing states no experience is needed, and an instructor guides each step.
  • You leave with something finished. Every participant completes a custom wand or BBQ fork to take home.
  • The group is deliberately small. Only four participants are accepted, which the organizer says ensures individual attention.
  • Everything is supplied. Tools, materials and safety gear come with the ticket, so no equipment purchase is required.
  • It mixes craft with science. The class pairs traditional forging with an introduction to how induction heating works.

What to know before you go

The workshop runs Sunday, Nov. 15, from 3 to 7:30 p.m. at MakeHaven, 770 Chapel St., New Haven, CT 06510. A standard ticket costs $135; MakeHaven members pay $115. Registration is required in advance through MakeHaven's event page, and questions can go to info@makehaven.org. Participants should bring closed-toe shoes, long pants such as jeans or work pants (no leggings or synthetic fabrics), and a breathable natural-fiber shirt, since the forge gets hot.

FAQ

When is the Introduction to Induction class?

It takes place Sunday, Nov. 15, from 3 to 7:30 p.m. at MakeHaven, 770 Chapel St. in New Haven, Connecticut.

How much does it cost, and how do I sign up?

Tickets are $135, or $115 for MakeHaven members, and advance registration through MakeHaven's event page is required. The class is limited to four participants.