Blacksmithing Workshop FAQs

Our workshops are held at the Carlaw Industrial Centre in Toronto, located at the intersection of Dundas St and Carlaw Ave. Address: 388 Carlaw Ave Unit S2C, Toronto, ON, M4M 2T4.

Yes! Safety is baked into everything we do, but that doesn't mean it's sterile or intimidating. You'll get proper protective gear, clear instruction before you touch any tool, and one of our blacksmiths right there with you at every step.

Workshops typically range from 4 - 12 people.

We recommend participants wear cotton clothing (no synthetic materials), a long sleeve shirt, pants, and closed toe shoes or boots. (steel-toed shoes or boots recommend, not mandatory). Please ensure long hair is tied up. We will provide a face shield, gloves, and a leather apron. Wearing layers can help depending on the time of year.

Our workshops range whether you're attending solo or as a duo (2 people making 1 item) the length is the same. They are: Fire Poker Workshops are approximately 3 hours. Axe Workshops are approximately 6 hours and completed in a single day. Railroad Spike Workshops are approximately 4-5 hours and completed in a single day.

We accept students from the age of 12 and above. Anyone under the age of 18 must purchase a duo workshop as they need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is also participating in the workshop.

None at all — most of our Ax Grads have never touched an anvil before their first class. Beginners aren't just welcome here, they're expected. We'll walk you through everything, hands-on, from the first swing

We offer a range of workshop options for beginners and intermediate blacksmiths with various price points from $199 up to $599, you can find all workshop offerings here: https://www.axcadmy.com/shop

You'll receive a second email from us with instructions on how to book. Check your spam and junk folder for the email if you're unable to locate it. The email includes the promo code, you need this to book your workshop. once you have your promo code head to Book Now page, choose the workshop you paid for, then pick a time and date that works for you. Once you're at the check out page, enter your promo code in the promo code box. Make sure to check that you're ONLY pasting the code, and no space is in the box.

Yes — private group events require a minimum of 6 people, with special pricing for groups of 6-10. You'll have 2-3 blacksmiths guiding the session so everyone gets real hands-on time at the forge, and you can choose from any of our workshops based on your group's experience level. We run 5 days a week. Email hello@axcadmy.com with your group size, preferred workshop, and a few date options, and we'll make it happen!

The shop is fully indoors with heating, air conditioning, and proper ventilation. You'll be working around real fire and forges, but the space is set up to stay comfortable year-round.

Paid Green P street parking is available on Dundas St E and along Carlaw Ave.

Yes, and it's one of our favourite formats. Whether it's a leadership offsite, a client thank you event, or just a team that wants to do something different, we've hosted groups of up to 10. Everyone leaves with something they made, and a story that beats another round of trust falls. Email our team hello@axcadmy.com for special group rates of our workshops.

Yes, we offer group pricing. Please contact us at hello@axcadmy.com with details about your group or corporate event to inquire about pricing. We offer private group knife or ax workshops for 6 to 10 people. Our group rate is attached. Each person will work on and go home with their own custom axe or knife. We can run a group workshop on any day of the week that isn’t currently booked. We can adjust the start times to work with your schedule if needed. If you're looking for larger group events, then send us an email, as we can custom create an experience for you with a different object. You can also learn more here: https://www.axcadmy.com/groups

When you buy a workshop, you're purchasing your spot, not a specific date. Once you're in, you'll pick your session time separately, whenever works for you (or your gift recipient). You have one year to schedule your workshop.

Once you've received your voucher, head to the Booking page and choose your workshop. Pick the date and time and once you're at the check out page and enter your gift card code in the gift card box. No need to buy anything again, you're just picking when you want to show up and get your hands dirty.

Your workshop or gift card are good for 12 months from purchase, so there's no pressure to book right away.

The Fire Poker is our most affordable entry point, the Railroad Spike Blade and Custom Ax are our most popular, the High Carbon Blade is a step up in materials and finish, and the Two Hander Ax is our most involved build for anyone wanting a bigger challenge. None is a "lesser" version of another. Just different projects with different time and skill investments.

A duo workshop means two people, one item. You'll work together at the same station to forge a single piece as a team. It's a great option for couples, family or friends who want to build something side by side without doubling the cost.

A real, functional piece you made yourself. Depending on your workshop, you'll walk out with your own axe, blade, or fire poker, forged and finished by you.

We don't allow spectators in the shop at this time. It keeps the space safe and focused for everyone forging. If you'd like a friend or family member to be part of the experience rather than just watching, a duo workshop is a great fit as you can work out your level of involvement together.

Full refunds will be provided if cancelled within 30 days of purchasing a workshop.   We also understand that life happens. If you can't make your scheduled workshop date, let us know as soon as possible, and you can re-book for a future date. Rescheduling within 5 days of the workshop date, will result in a re-booking fee.   Purchased workshops must be used within 12 months from the date of purchase and will expire after the 12 months.