r. mahon

The closest b/s group to you is the Illinois Valley Blacksmith Association. However, most of their activities are in Pontiac or south of Pontiac. I happen to give b/s lessons at Kline Creek Farm in Winfield, il. The farm is operated by the Du Page County Forest Preserve . If you are interested in seeing the shop , drop in when i am at the farm. I am generally at the farm on the first and third saturdayof the month and other days by chance. we are presently looking for volunteers to blacksmith. we will train you for free if you volunteer. You can look up the farm as well as the IVBS on the internet. I hope that this information answers your questions. Bob Mahon

PS - The above message is for " SEIMKO " Sorry I left your name of my reply. Bob Mahon

I draw my patterns on white paper and "xerox" the pattern. I then glue the "Xerox" copy onto the metal to be cut, with rubber cement. This system works very well for multiple pieces. If you are going to use a chisel on the piece, the paper aids in placeing and keeping the chisel in place until the groove is completed. This system works for small as well as large pieces.

I am the volunteer blacksmith at KLINE CREEK FARM in Winfield, Il. I have been giving lessons at the farm for the past year. We will resume lessons this coming spring (2010). If you are interested in lessons, call the farm at 630-876-5900. The farm is operated by the DUPAGE COUNTY FORREST PRESERVE. Incidently, I am a member of IVBA.