Hot Iron Blacksmith

28/09/2026

Looking forward to 2027! I usually have a Beginning Blacksmithing Class on the first Saturday monthly. I think January 2 is a bit early. I’m going to set the class on Saturday January 9. As usual it’s a half day class starting at eight and finishing around noon. Contact me for registration on Facebook or email or text.
All my beginner class spaces for 2026 are full. National Curriculum classes in December have a couple openings. Check them out with me.

31/08/2026

I’m excited to hear this message! This Conference is loaded with excellent lectures in addition to the many hot iron demonstrations plus three days of opportunities to work at forges. The biggest challenge will be making decisions on how to best use your time. Don’t let this opportunity slip away!

07/08/2026

A few photos from the 2026 ASM Materials Camp blacksmithing event. Thanks to IVBA members for helping mentor the 30 high school students during two days. The student feedback again rated the Blacksmithing to be the favorite of the week.

02/08/2026

Two inches of rain fell in an hour during the August 1 morning beginning Blacksmithing class. That didn’t stop the class from having a good time and completing their project. George was the water maintenance man! I have a Beginning class on the first Saturday morning monthly year around. Advanced ABANA National Curriculum Level I and Level II classes are held the second and third Saturdays respectively. Contact me via email or FB for registration dates.

31/03/2026

Lucas is fifteen and getting started in blacksmithing. Today was his first experience with a coal forge. We both got our steak turner projects done. I had a little more experience. Great day and looking forward to more.

23/03/2026

This is the annual event you should try to attend! Matthew will offer new ideas to take back and try. Potluck lunch served at the historic bar room is always great. The auction after lunch will have treasures!

09/03/2026

Five new students doing the beginning blacksmithing class this first Saturday of March. Everyone worked at a high level considering this was their first time working with forge and anvil. The weather changed rapidly in the morning to a cold wind. They were glad to have warm fires!

28/01/2026

The open shop/house is for all our blacksmith friends and friends of friends. Parking is available on the property south of the shop on both sides of the street. Try not to park parallel along the street.

If you don’t see your face in this photo it’s because you missed the 2025 annual “Forging On the River” open shop and potluck at Hot Iron Blacksmith, better known as Bud and Janelle Harvey’s place. Address is 12000 N Riverview Road Chillicothe Illinois. This year’s open shop is February 7, starting around nine. Everyone will be able to forge a Russian Rose. Chuck Jolly is providing precut blanks. You’re all welcome to come and warm yourselves with great fellowship and food.

24/12/2025

A photo shot from a couple years ago reminding everyone to come on February 7, 2026, 9am til 4pm, for the annual "forging on the river" open shop and potluck. All forges inside and outside (weather permitting) will be available for working your projects and maybe TBD doing a competition project. Plenty of shop tools available, or BYO. Address for newbees is 12000 N. Riverview Rd., Chillicothe, Il., 61523. Parking available on the grass around the shop, or along the street. RSVP text to 309-258-2010 is appreciated by the cooks, or just come!

10/12/2025

For any IVBA member who registers for the ABANA NC Level II zoom program, I’m available to help mentor.