Frequently Asked Questions
Is blacksmithing dangerous?
I will go through some basic safety and we will sign waivers, but generally speaking it is not more dangerous than working around an open fire or a grill.
Where does the name 'Lesja' come from?
Lesja (pronounced LESH-uh) was the name of the community that my great-grandfather came from in Norway. I always thought it was a cool name, and pays homage to my heritage.
What does it cost? How long is a class?
Usually $100 per student. Classes are four hours - check the individual class tickets for specific times and prices.
Why do you charge for your classes?
Hobbies are expensive. By charging for classes I can help recoup a portion of the cost of materials, fuel, maintenance, and equipment.
How did you get into blacksmithing?
I have always wanted to make a sword. I watched the Forged in Fire TV show on History sometime around 2018 and decided to start watching some YouTube on the subjects of blacksmithing and bladesmithing. It wasn't long before I was in the back yard working on my homemade forge. And yes, I made my first sword.
Can you work with special needs or special arrangements (i.e. 4H group, businesses)?
Short answer, yes. But send me an email first and we can discuss making your dream a reality and what that might look like to ensure a positive experience.