2 Day Bronze Dagger Casting

Step back 3,000 years and discover the ancient art of bronze casting. This two-day class takes you through the complete process of making a Bronze Age dagger — from preparing the sand mould and melting the bronze, to casting, cleaning and finishing the blade. This is not blacksmithing — it is foundry work, one of the oldest metalworking traditions on earth.

Over two days you will learn sand casting technique, alloy preparation, the pour, and all the filing, grinding and polishing needed to take a raw casting to a finished blade. You will also fit a natural handle of your choice. A truly unique experience — one of very few places in the UK where you can cast your own bronze blade.

What's Included

• Bronze alloy for casting
• Sand moulding materials and equipment
• All casting and finishing tools
• Handle material
• Full safety equipment
• Free refreshments both days

What to Bring

• Packed lunch both days
• Sturdy boots — steel-toe strongly recommended
• Old natural-fibre clothing
• Camera — the pour is spectacular

The Day Step by Step

1. Day 1: Introduction to sand casting and mould making
2. Preparing your pattern and sand mould
3. Melting the bronze alloy
4. The pour — casting your dagger blade
5. Initial cleaning and inspection of the casting
6. Day 2: Grinding and filing the blade to shape
7. Polishing and finishing the blade
8. Fitting and shaping your handle
9. Final finishing and inspection