Meet Doug - Beginner Blackmithing Class Instructor
Doug LaBorde, Signature Blacksmithing LLC
Previous Experience
30 years doing welding and fabrication as a Journeyman Boilermaker.
30 years doing welding and fabrication as a Journeyman Boilermaker.
Blacksmithing Experience
10 years of Blacksmithing experience with more of an interest in "traditional" (old fashion) blacksmithing while also using more modern methods when appropriate. I make a fairly large variety of products; Tools, home and garden fixtures, railings and decorative pieces.
10 years of Blacksmithing experience with more of an interest in "traditional" (old fashion) blacksmithing while also using more modern methods when appropriate. I make a fairly large variety of products; Tools, home and garden fixtures, railings and decorative pieces.
Blacksmithing Focus
My biggest interest in blacksmithing is the learning and executing of the traditional skills of blacksmithing. It is very fulfilling to be able to take the iron and make it into something useful and beautiful. I most like working with hammer, anvil and coal forge.
My biggest interest in blacksmithing is the learning and executing of the traditional skills of blacksmithing. It is very fulfilling to be able to take the iron and make it into something useful and beautiful. I most like working with hammer, anvil and coal forge.
Training
I have attended multiple blacksmithing classes over the years with a verity of instructors, the first being the 2 day Beginners class at Ken's Custom Iron. And I have recently completed ABANA (Artists Blacksmiths Association of North America) Curriculum Levels I & II (of III) which also certifies me as an ABANA Level I instructor. The level one training covers all of what we will be doing in the 2 day beginner and more.
I have attended multiple blacksmithing classes over the years with a verity of instructors, the first being the 2 day Beginners class at Ken's Custom Iron. And I have recently completed ABANA (Artists Blacksmiths Association of North America) Curriculum Levels I & II (of III) which also certifies me as an ABANA Level I instructor. The level one training covers all of what we will be doing in the 2 day beginner and more.
Teaching and Demonstrating
I have worked with individual students at the forge. Done intro to blacksmithing classes in larger settings talking about what's needed to get started, where to find it and introducing some of the basic skills of the craft. I have demonstrated at fairs, blacksmiths meetings and other gatherings.
I have worked with individual students at the forge. Done intro to blacksmithing classes in larger settings talking about what's needed to get started, where to find it and introducing some of the basic skills of the craft. I have demonstrated at fairs, blacksmiths meetings and other gatherings.
Memberships
I am a member of ABANA, Central MN Blacksmiths and The Guild of Metal smiths.
I am a member of ABANA, Central MN Blacksmiths and The Guild of Metal smiths.
You can see some of my work on FaceBook @signtureblacksmithing
