James Russell Posted January 17, 2012 Share Posted January 17, 2012 I am looking for a Blacksmithing school in my area or a mentor in my area to help me get into blacksmithing. I am located in Copperas Cove Texas, which is right outside Fort Hood. I am looking for a school that will accept my G.I. Bill, or a mentor who would be willing to teach me the basics. I am on a limited budget due to being medically retired from the military, so I cannot afford to pay much out of pocket to a mentor. I would like to learn the trade in a proper environment before I try to make my own forge. Any references would be much appreciated, everything I have turned up has been about 45 min of driving time or more away from my location and that would be too difficult of a commute financially to go to school. Thanks in advance for any advice or resources you can help me with. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jerry W. Posted January 17, 2012 Share Posted January 17, 2012 James, Balcones Forge is a Central Blacksmith Association. This is a great group of Artist / Blacksmiths with many of them very willing to share what they have learned over the years. They can be found at http://balconesforge.org/. We usually meet on the last Saturday of the month. For our big demo this year we have Elizabeth Brim to demo on May 5th & 6th just out of Marble Falls, Texas. January 28 - We will meet at the Gunter Hotel in downtown San Antonio at the ABS Expo. February 18 - Steephollow Forge in Bryan Texas - This is one I sure do not want to miss. March 31 - Zilker Park in Austin Texas Austin Community College has great Metal Working / Blacksmithing classes. Many of our members have or do attend. It would be nice to meet you and help where we can, Jerry W. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HWooldridge Posted January 17, 2012 Share Posted January 17, 2012 ACC has a very good program and should be eligible under GI bill since it's a community college (although you should verify). Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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