Hi Everybody,

Last October I hosted Ford Hallam at my workshop in New Hampshire for eight weeks of classes on traditional Japanese metalworking techniques. Mr. Hallam returned again this Spring, and he'll be back this October for a few more classes. The classes are almost full already, but I wanted to announce them here in case anybody is interested.

Ford is called (in Japan) a tsuba-shi, which means that he is a maker of tsuba. (The tsuba is the guard--usually disk shaped--you see on most Japanese swords.) His work involves virtually all of the decorative techniques from classical Japanese metalworking developed over the last thousand years including engraving, chip carving, stippling, inlay, koftgari, granulation, patination, and many more. Here is his website, where you can find lots more information: http://www.fordhallam.com/ (and his blog/forum: http://followingtheironbrush.blogspot.com/)

We will be offering three classes this October:

October 6-11: Uchidashi

October 13-18: Introduction

October 20-25: Uchidashi

(Uchidashi is a technique that is often compared with repousse, though I have been told this comparison is not entirely accurate. The technique allows the artist to manipulate metal sheet to produce hollow forms. For those of you familiar with Japanese blades, menuki are typically produced this way.)

The introduction course will cover tool making and general setup, engraving, carving, wire inlay, flat inlay, texturing, and patination. It is a startling amount of information to consume so quickly, so Ford and I have begun referring to it as a Nantucket sleigh ride. It is not for the faint of heart, but I can tell you from personal experience that it is an outstanding and enlightening process, and Ford is perhaps the finest teacher I've ever had. Although it is only a week long, you will leave the class with a grasp of the fundamentals sufficient to advance yourself to a very proficient use of the techniques. You will get much more; I took his classes in October and the experience permanently changed the way I approach and practice my craft.

Tuition for each class is $1250, and there are some additional costs for the tools you'll need to bring with you. There are several reasonable options for accommodations in the area, including a couple of spots here at my home.

If you are interested or would like more information, please email me at [email protected].

All the best,

Zack Jonas

Journeyman Smith