Level 0

This is a short course introducing students to basic design and Metalwork as well as Art Metal projects.

• • Intro (selected portions:)
    • Design
    • Measurement (fractional)
    • Safety
  • Welding (Specifically MIG)

• PROJECT – Pendant

• PROJECT – Whistle
  • VIDEO: How to Make the Whistle

• PROJECT – Pencil Case
  • VIDEO: How to Make the Pencil Case
  • PATTERN – Base (print 1:1, do not scale)
  • PATTERN – Lid (print 1:1, do not scale)

• PROJECT – Blacksmithed Hook
  • VIDEO: Blacksmithed Hook

• PROJECT – Pocket Anvil

• PROJECT – Metal Rose
  • (POTENTIALLY NEW 2025)
  • VIDEO: Sheet Metal Rose

• PROJECT – Chain Ball
  • VIDEO: How to Make Chain Ball

Level 1

This is an introductory course designed to build a strong foundation for advanced fabrication. A wide variety of machines are used, while processes and skills are developed, such as hand tools, power tools, lathe, milling, sheet metal, forging, casting and welding.

• • Intro
    • Design
    • Dimensioning
    • Safety
    • Time Management
    • Basic lathe Operations
    • Measurement (fractional & precision)
    • Thread Cutting
    • Fabrication Tips
  • Welding (gas, stick, MIG, TIG)

• PROJECT – Soft Jaws

• PROJECT – Machinist Hammer

• PROJECT – Welded Log

• PROJECT – Shovel – Collapsible

• PROJECT – Twisted Double Hook
  • VIDEO: How To Make the Twisted Double Hook

• PROJECT – MIG Name

• PROJECT – Lake Country Choppers

Level 2

This course builds on Level 1 with more complex and challenging projects.  Less hand-holding instruction is given in the plans, and you will do more “figuring it out” as you go. Students will use lathe, milling machine, welding, and forging procedures, as well as precision measurement and tool maintenance.

• • Intro
    • Design
    • Dimensioning
    • Safety
    • Time Management
    • Basic lathe Operations
    • Measurement (fractional & precision)
    • Thread Cutting
    • Fabrication Tips
  • Welding (gas, stick, MIG, TIG)

• PROJECT – Drill Point Gauge
  • VIDEO: How to Sharpen Drill Bits

• PROJECT – Scriber

• PROJECT – Blacksmith BBQ Fork

• PROJECT – Dumpster
  • PATTERN – Dumpster

• PROJECT – Steam Engine

          OR

• PROJECT – Nut Cracker (not both)

• PROJECT – Plasma Cut Sign

• Self-Directed Projects

Level 3

This course takes the skills learned in Level 1 and Level 2, and now focuses a heavy emphasis on design, prototyping, and problem solving. Students taking this course must be competent in all shop practices and shop safety.

• • Intro
    • Design
    • Dimensioning
    • Safety
    • Time Management
    • Basic lathe Operations
    • Measurement (fractional & precision)
    • Thread Cutting
    • Fabrication Tips
  • Welding (gas, stick, MIG, TIG)
  • PROJECT – Lathe Bit Gauge (and sharpening lathe cutter)
  • Self-Directed Projects, such as:

• PROJECT: Lathe Bit Gauge
  • VIDEO: How to Sharpen Lathe Bits

• PROJECT DESIGN REPORT

• PROJECT – Midget Kart

• PROJECT – Chopper Bicycle
  • Instructor’s Notes

• Trail Bike

Level 4

This should be the highest level of proficiency, taking on significant project challenges. I should be your guide, not your hand-holding Instructor, at this point.

• • Intro
    • Design
    • Dimensioning
    • Safety
    • Time Management
    • Basic lathe Operations
    • Measurement (fractional & precision)
    • Thread Cutting
    • Fabrication Tips
  • Welding (gas, stick, MIG, TIG)
  • PROJECT DESIGN REPORT