Damascus Axe Master Class
Description
Axes have been used in battle and to harvest timber for millennia and were an integral part of Viking and early Scandinavian life. This 4 day workshop will take participants through the process of making a Damascus Steel Wrapped Axe–an object that is as beautiful as it is functional.
Originally used to make steel tough, resistant to shattering and capable of being honed to a sharp resilient edge, the swirling patterns of Damascus steel have been used as blades for swords and knives since the 3rd century. Today the process is alive and well with Damascus knives becoming ever more complex and ornate. This masterclass will start by taking participants through the process of making their own Damascus steel billet, which they will then forge into the axe head.
Participants will start by learning about the properties of steel and create the swirling patterns by stacking and fire-welding steel alloys with a power hammer. Once the billet is complete it will be forged into the axe-head using traditional anvil-forging methods and power-hammer, finishing off by applying an acid-etch to develop the pattern and shaping the handle from a piece of spotted-gum timber.
This class requires prior blacksmithing experience, if you're unsure, just ask us!
Topics
- Steel selection: hard vs tough
- Stock preparation
- Fire-welding
- Working a billet on a power hammer
- Damascus pattern development
- Forging the wrapped axe
What you will learn
- How to make Damascus steel
- Use striking and a hydraulic press to forge a billet of Damascus steel
- Fire welding with a wrapped eye, handle shaping and fitment
What you will get
- Traditional Scandinavian wrapped axe made from pattern-welded Damascus steel
What to bring
- All materials included
What to wear
Please wear clothing appropriate for a workshop. This includes long pants and sleeves preferably natural fibre, solid shoes/boots.
Appropriate for
This advanced class is only suitable for experienced and confident students, however no prior power hammer experience is required.
Learn the metal arts at Eveleigh Works in Redfern, Sydney. Get your hands dirty with our short courses in blacksmithing, knife and tool-making. Courses for newbies and old hands, instructed by practicing craftspeople within the heritage workshop of an 1880s locomotive factory.
Cancellations & Refunds
If the organiser cancels the class:
You are entitled to a full refund.
If you can't attend the class:
You’re welcome to send someone in your place.
OR
- A refund can be requested 14 days before class starts. Free of charge.
- A transfer can be requested 14 days before the class starts. Free of charge.
- A credit note can be requested 14 days before the class starts. Free of charge.
No changes will be allowed after these times.
We recommend the refund upgrade option upon checkout in case you’re not able to attend the class. Learn more about refund upgrade option.
Terms & Conditions
Anyone partaking in any classes or coming to any events at Eveleigh Works or organised by Eveleigh Works must agree to these terms and conditions.
1.) LIABILITY WAIVER
I agree to take on full responsibility for any damages, injuries and for physical and/or personal property, which I might incur whilst participating in classes and/or events organised by Eveleigh Works.
2.) PHOTO & VIDEO
I agree to give Eveleigh Works unrestricted publishing rights for any photographs or videos taken at Eveleigh Works classes and events or on Eveleigh Works's premises. (For use of Eveleigh Works marketing materials).
3.) REFUNDS
Please see refund policy.
4.) CANCELLATIONS
In the event that a class is cancelled, students will be notified via text message or email and entitled to a full refund or credit to transfer.