Members Only: Intro to Metal Fabrication: A 2-Day Class

Please read full description for PPE Requirements

In this hands-on intro class, taught by Sam Browne and Charlie Collier, you'll learn the fundamentals of working with steel — from slicing through it to fusing it back together into something entirely new. No experience necessary. Just a willingness to make sparks fly.

This is a 2-Day Class. Students MUST attend both days:

Day 1: Saturday, August 1 - 10 AM to 1 PM

Day 2: Sunday, August 2 - Noon to 3 PM

Students will learn:

• Safe and confident use of angle grinders and reciprocating saws to cut and shape steel

• The basics of MIG (wire-feed) welding — how to set up the machine, read your weld, and lay down a solid bead

• Steel prep, safety practices, and shop etiquette so you (and everyone around you) stay safe

  
  

Put your skills to work: At the end of class, you'll use what you've learned to build a small steel sculpture — provided materials included. Got a busted garden gate, a wobbly chair, or a steel shelf held together by prayers and zip ties? Bring it in and we'll fix that too.

Let's set expectations: You've probably seen those gorgeous, perfectly stacked TIG welds on the internet — the ones that look like a row of shiny dimes. We are not doing that. TIG welding is an art form that takes years to master. MIG welding is the functional form you can actually learn in an afternoon. Our welds will be strong, functional, and deeply unpretty — and that's exactly the point. You're here to learn, not to impress Instagram.

This class is suitable for beginners, and is recommended for ages 18+. 

This class is for MAKE Roanoke Members ONLY. Learn more about MAKE Roanoke membership at https://mkroa.org/membership. All materials, taxes, and fees are covered in the class price of $45. This class counts as angle grinder, reciprocating saw, and MIG welder tool training for all members, but they must complete the yellow shop training before using this equipment unsupervised.

PPE Requirements:

• Closed Toe Boots

• Long Sleeve Jackets (FR, Denim, Leather, or Cotton) NO POLYESTER OR SYNTHETIC FIBERS

• Full Length Pants

Please note that MAKE Roanoke is an active workshop:

• All participants must have a signed waiver on file. If the participant is a minor, the waiver must be signed by a parent or court-appointed legal guardian. Waivers can be filled out ahead of time at https://mkroa.org/waiver

• Children who are not participating in the event are not permitted in the space. 

• Closed toed shoes are required in the space at all times by everyone, regardless of age or participation in an event. No sandals, crocs, or bare feet.

• You may be asked to remove or tuck in dangling jewelry, lanyards, etc for safety.

• Depending on the activity, other dress code rules may apply.