Upcoming events.
Fall Conference 24
UMBA will be welcoming our very own Patrick Nowak to demonstrate techniques and metallurgy for tool making, some fun and simple projects for beginners, and, something I'm REALLY looking forward to... an in-depth analysis of the Wootz Crucible steel that Ric Furrer of Door County Forgeworks made at the UMBA Winter Conference back in February, 2023. Looking forward to seeing you all there!
Potluck lunch as usual so please bring a dish to pass.
Trade item is..."Something Made From Campaign Sign Wire"
now that the election is FINALLY behind us... for better or for worse. Please note that some campaign sign wire is galvanized - if you find some that's rusty then you're fine for hot work, however, let's be blunt...it's small gauge mild steel wire, you don't need to heat it to forge it; you can make plenty with one without heating so get creative, have fun, and be safe!
Admission is 20$, Remember to update your membership if you are close
Midwest Fire Fest 24 (Other Side of the Anvil Event)
Midwest Fire Fest is a celebration of art created with fire, heat, and smoke in Cambridge, Wisconsin.
Haverhill 2024
Trade Item:
Miniature blacksmithing tools
Demonstration:
Tom Willoughby:
Tom Willoughby has been a farrier for 33 years. In that time, he learned the intricacies and characteristics of steel and how it moves. Although he has been working with steel for over half his life, he has been an artist his whole life. Tom can make words come to life in a song. He also has turned blocks of wood into intricate and beautiful works of art. He has spent countless hours working at and perfecting each talent.
Although he has had a workshop for years, Tom officially established Willoughby Forge two years ago. He built a shop to house the coal forge, plethora of tools, several anvils, the Big Blue air hammer, and a large work table. Magic happens in this work studio as hand drawn ideas come to life in either steel or wood, or a combination of the two mediums.
Admission:
$20 for Saturday // $30 for Friday & Saturday
Lunch:
Potluck: bring a dish to share
Rick Medd’s Hammer In 2024
Bring a project or just come to hang out with your favorite UMBA pal’s at Ricks place!
Lunch:
Potluck, bring a dish to share
Winter Conference 2024
Trade Item:
Bread Knife or Wire Cheese Slicer
Demonstration:
Member Variety Show: Select members demonstrating their works and methods: Subjects include Quick Crucible Steel Making, Bronze / Aluminum Casting, Hand-Forged Utensils
Friday Workshop:
Woodworking & Blacksmithing Demonstration w/ Mike Garrett & Andy Svoboda
Admission:
$20 for Saturday // $30 for Friday & Saturday
Lunch:
Potluck: bring a dish to share
Nowak Halloween Hammer-in/Other Side of the Anvil
This event is an open forge event for smiths of all skill levels. In years past we’ve had a large turnout of first timers, especially youth, so volunteers willing to coach folks through a simple first time project are appreciated. For those desiring to work on larger or more complex projects, the main shop and power hammers will be available. There is no formal demonstration planned. You are encouraged to bring your ideas and projects. Attendees are welcome to bring their own forges, tools and materials. Tail gate sales are welcome. In addition, the UMBA teaching trailer will be on site. For those wishing to incorporate a Halloween flair, feel free to come in costume. Lunch will be pot-luck style. Contact Patrick Nowak with any questions: PNowak@scotforge.com or 608-563-0729
Fall Conference
Fall Conference is earlier than normal this year so make sure to mark it on your calendars ASAP.
Nathan Robertson will be demonstrating. From 9 am to whenever we need to pack up with a break for lunch and the auction.
Potluck lunch as usual so please bring a dish to pass.
Trade item is....an ice cream scoop.
Admission is 20$, Remember to update your membership if you are close
Blacksmith Day Hammer In at Richfield Historical Park
Richfield Historical Society is having a Blacksmith Day Hammer In. October 7, 2023. 9am - 4pm. Demonstrate your own technique. Tailgate/Artwork Sales. Spaces are 10x10 or larger. Free. Setup will be in the Nature Park just East of the Blacksmith shop. All smiths must register. Interested, call or email Jeff Beegle at 262-721-4995 or
beegledog3860@gmail.com