This past weekend was the first of the Spring Primitive Blacksmithing Weekends for the year. Over the weekend, as I was posting pictures on the Facebook page, there were several comments about how good it was to see a mix of attendees. It was regarding there being females in the workshop. I found the statements surprising. I have been teaching these workshops for the past 3 years. I can only think of one where it was all men. And that one was a special group of all men. They were friends and just wanted a men’s weekend. I guess when people think of blacksmithing they may think of this:
I have actually found the female participants rather enjoyable to work with. They have attended as part of a couple, as sisters, friends and even solo. They seem to have a bit more patience, a different artistic outlook, listen deeper, and don’t seem to kill the metal with testosterone. As a whole. Now, I am not saying in any way that the fellas are bad to work with, just different. All who come through my workshops do some amazing work. I get a lot of pleasure sharing this craft. I state several times throughout the weekend that my goal is to give each one the knowledge and skills to take back and recreate it. It is exciting to me to get feedback from past attendees on how they have set up their own home forges. And as best as I can recall, it’s about even between them. I specifically designed these workshops for all people, ages 14 (with parent) and up. I guess it just caught me off guard when it was pointed out. I never really gave it much thought other than, ‘cool, someone wants to learn’. You can browse through some reviews and see what others have to say about their adventure here at the smithy. Hopefully, sometime soon, it won’t be so unusual to others. What are your thoughts? Leave a comment below.
Do me a favor: Before you go, if you liked this post, then please scroll on to the bottom click on that little heart below. Then share this with someone who you think would benefit (there are buttons at the bottom for you to do this easily). Please don’t keep me a secret! I need your help to spread the word. After all, how many people do you know that can say they have their very own personal magical blacksmith??
If you haven't done so, please subscribe to the site. That way you won't miss anything (like new forge bling, posts, announcements, sales etc.) And even better, if possible, please support me, over at Patreon
I welcome you to add your comments below.
Don't leave just yet! Check out all the Forge Bling in the shop. And get the book 'Metal Never Lies An Introduction To Metal Magic'
Or see what upcoming Workshops are available. Finally, you can see what others say about their experience!