Blacksmithing: Hand Forged Thumb Latch with Thomas Latané
The class project will be a basic thumb latch, variations of which have been used for hundreds of years in many traditions. Students will forge a hefty thumb latch suitable for the entrance to a home, cabin, or outbuilding, depending on the refinement of the finish work. In pairs, participants will rough out the handle, one holding the hot steel and the tools and the other striking with a sledgehammer. After this, each person will finish a handle, then forge the thumb lever and as much of the back latch group—latch bar, staple, and keeper—as time and skill permit. Installation will be discussed, as well as optimal designs for outwardly opening doors.
| Dates: | June 13 and 14, 2009 (Full Days) |
| Course Fee: | $200 |
| Supply Fee: | $20 |
| Location: | Hillsboro, WI |