Basics of Metal Casting

This 14 hour session will introduce the student ito the basics of casting two metals - BRONZE and PEWTER.

Saturday will start with the ancient method of casting pewter in soapstone moulds. Each participant will cut their own mould block (which they get to keep) using simple hand tools. After lunch, several pours will be made using a modern lead free (92 % tin) pewter alloy. These will be finished into completed pendants as time permits. The day will be finished up with an introduction to carving waxes for small bonze objects. (Students may borrow tools for the evening to work ahead on their master pattern.

Starting on Sunday, we will learn how to cast bronze using green sand moulds. Each will pack several boxes around their completed patterns. A first pour will be done (before lunch) using pewter as a test. After lunch fresh moulds will be made, and several pours will be made with liquid bronze.

This program does not require any previous metalworking experience. Session limited to TWO students. Course fee of $425(+ HST) includes coffee and all materials.

Programs are open to any physically able people, from young adults onwards. (Aged 16 an up - see a special note : Teens as Students). Any students with "learning \ physical disabilities" need to refer to the detail section on Course Requirements. English is the language of instruction. Sorry - the Wareham Forge is not really wheel chair accessible.

Your instructor is professional blacksmith Darrell Markewitz of the Wareham Forge. Please look over Darrell's past work with Pewter Casting and Historic Reproductions.

Each student should come with some ideas for a posible small object, roughly pendant sized. Handouts are included, but a notebook may prove useful. All tools and safety equipment are provided, the course fee includes the materials to produce a number of finished pieces in both pewter and bronze. Students should dress for the workshop - long pants and work suitable shoes or boots required.

The shop combines traditional and modern equipment, with the main forge coal fired (for forge welding) and two gas forges for general forging steps. There will be one anvil per student, all basic tools will be provided. A 50 lb throw air hammer will be used for drawing out. Equipment includes the related grinding and polishing machinery, as well as a fully equipped fine metals studio.

The Wareham Forge is located in Grey County (Central Ontario), about half way between Orangeville and Owen Sound. We are about 5 miles SE of the village of Flesherton, just off highway 10, (about 2 hours drive NW of Toronto).