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Red Mountain Makers

View all classes, or filter them by area using the menu below - Class FAQs

Gift a class for someone by signing up with your email, and email classes@redmountainmakers.org to let us know who to transfer the class to and when to notify them! 

NOTE: If you are looking to book a 1 hour "You Blew it!" glassblowing sessions, please head to the booking page here.

All Upcoming Classes

    • 01/25/2025
    • 01/26/2025
    • 2 sessions
    • Red Mountain Makers
    • 6
    Register
    In this class students will be lead by a professional prop maker, and metal smith, in the in the process of lost wax/ ceramic shell casting. Students will learn the process of making a wax positive, then the steps necessary to create a ceramic silica mold capable of resisting extreme temperatures while maintaining the ability to pick up extreme detail! Students will learn wax burn out procedures, dipping molds in ceramic, casting bronze, and de-molding. On day one items to be cast in bronze will be created in wax, vented, and dipped several times in a ceramic slurry mixture to build up the necessary thickness required. (The following week will be available to students during normal open hours to complete dipping if not completed during class) On day two students will assist in burning out the wax in preparation of pouring bronze later that evening. This technique is widely used in industry and individuals with the knowledge and skill set are highly sought in the work force.

    Note: Though it is not required, this class strongly suggests the 101 mold-making course before attempting this class to build off of previously learned skills and to expedite workflow. It is recommended that the piece to be cast in metal has been previously made or cast in wax and this can be accomplished within the previous mold making class.

    Work involved –  building a flask “container”, mixing two part compounds, adding release agents, unmolding

    Tools/Materials Utilized- Mold release spray, razor blades, venting red wax, rubber molds. 5 kg of silicon bronze per student, casting furnace, 10 kg graphite crucible for bronze. Borax flux, skimmer, heat resistant safety gear, ceramic slurry, various grits of silica sand, zircon, burn out oven, large metal tray, modeling brown wax, electric eye burner, propane burner, sculpting wax tools, soldering iron, pots, figurine, crucible shank, safety equipment

    What to wear:  At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed.

    About the Instructor: Class is taught by Kenneth of Fire & Brimstone Forge

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy 

    • 01/25/2025
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Woodshop
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Get introduced to the beautiful craft of woodworking by making your own cutting board.

    You will choose from a variety of designs composed of different native hardwoods, learn proper assembling, gluing, sanding and finishing techniques and will be taught how to correctly use thickness planer and orbital sander.

    After this 3-hour course, you will bring home a stylish ~ 8.5" x 11" handmade board that you can show off to your friends and family.

    Check out the designs available to make during this class here


    What to wear: You must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long sleeves should be avoided if possible and rolled up if necessary. Long hair must be tied back and dangly necklaces, earrings or other accessories shall be removed before starting the class. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed.

    About the InstructorTerry Tingle is the president of the Alabama Woodturners Association and is a member of The American Association of Woodturners. Terry has been doing woodworking since 2014, and has taught students how to create cutting board designs, cut segments, glue and use a variety of clamps, and how to use planers and orbital sanders, and how to use the right finishes to preserve cutting boards. Terry is knowledgeable and experienced in making long grain, edge grain, and end grain cutting boards. He especially enjoys seeing the expression of a student who has just learned how to make something that looks great and is so useful. And cutting boards make great gifts!

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class, though minors must be supervised by a guardian at all times. Please read carefully the disclaimers and guidelines and contact us with any questions or concerns. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy 



    • 01/25/2025
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Classroom
    • 0

    We are THRILLED to start hosting the Rug Tufting Workshops of Tuft Birmingham to Red Mountain Makers! 

    In this 3-hour workshop, you will learn how to create your own rug, hosted by Andrea creator of Tuft Birmingham! No experience needed – just bring your creativity and get ready to tuft!

    You get to upload the image you would like to make! This image will have to be completed in 2.5 hours. There will not be enough time to complete complicated images with small details, so we suggest images with no more than 4-5 colors. Andrea will reach out if she recommends changing the image!

    For non-members, this class comes with a FREE MONTH of membership (a $40 value). After completing the class, students are invited to use that free month of membership to return during open hours to work on other projects, meet people, and explore more ways to make!

    This class is taught by Andrea Willis of Tuft Birmingham. Check out her work on Instagram and Facebook or shop her work on Etsy!

    FAQ: 

    What is rug tufting?

    Rug tufting is a technique used to create rugs by punching yarn or thread through a base fabric using a tufting gun or needle. This process allows for the creation of various patterns, textures, and designs on the rug’s surface.

    Do I need any prior experience to participate in Tuft Birmingham workshops?

    No prior experience is necessary to participate in our workshop. We welcome participants of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced learners.

    What’s included with the Workshop?

    All the supplies needed to create your hand-tufted rug: tufting machines, frames, cloth, and a selection of yarn from our wide range of yarn colors.

    Finishing service done by us: gluing, shaving, and backing your rug!

    Age: 

    There are no age limitations. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Email classes@redmountainmakers.org with questions. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy 




    • 01/25/2025
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Forge Area
    • 6
    Register

    Learn how to forge your own belt buckle!

    In this class students will challenge their skills of precision while creating a belt buckle that is both functional and decorative. This is a multi piece project where students will have to measure, cut, and punch holes through steel then line up the pieces so they can be riveted together. This class will focus on precision skills and aligning pieces together.

    Task involved - (shaping, hammering, punching, riveting, twisting, measuring, cutting, fitting)

    About the Instructor: Classes taught by Kenneth of Fire & Brimstone Forge

    Prerequisites: Recommended to take "Learn to Forge nails" first

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class. All minors must be supervised by an adult at all times

    Refund and Cancellation Policy 

    What to wearAt RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed. 




    • 01/26/2025
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Open Project Area
    • 5
    Register
    If your looking for a fun and interesting craft project but don’t want to commit to a lot of work, then this is the class for you! Students taking this class will be introduced to proper processes of soldering pieces of glass to create a stained glass ornament. Students will receive a kit of materials and Pre-cut glass they will assemble while following alongside the instructor in a step by step process.

    A new seasonal ornament uniquely designed will be available each offering making for a unique experience every time this class is offered through the year! This month it's this beautiful snow flake ornament! If you just want to see what working with stained glass is like, or want to start a hobby or collection then this would be an excellent class to take!

    Work Involved - assembly, copper foiling, soldering, grinding glass

    Tools & Materials - (Lead came/U channel, copper foil, 60/40 lead solder, soldering irons, various color and styles of stained glass, latex gloves, tracing sheets, pliers, glass cutters, T pins/flat nails, pin hammers, cutting oil, glass grinder, decorative chain, tinned wire, tinned jump rings, plastic water color brushes, small plastic paint cups, paper towels, flux, and patina)                                                          

    What to wear:  At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed.

    About the Instructor: Class is taught by Kenneth of Fire & Brimstone Forge

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy 

    • 01/26/2025
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Open Project Area
    • 10
    Register

    In this workshop, you will have the opportunity to create an original pewter pendant from small found objects alongside skilled metal artist, Julie Carpenter. With her guidance, your hands-on experience will include pattern designing, mold making, casting, drilling, polishing, and patina application. In addition to your newfound love for metal casting, you will take home a shiny new handmade piece pf pewter art designed and crafted by you!  Feel free to bring your own tiny objects to use in designing your piece. Julie will bring her big collection of small things to share with all students in this process.

    About the Instructor: Julie Carpenter (@juliecarpenterart) has been instructing and sharing her knowledge in the art of metalworking since 2007. She has taught classes and held camps on the fundamentals of oxygen/acetylene (gas) welding, MIG (wire) welding, and pewter jewelry casting to people between the ages of 8 and 85. Julie believes that metal working is for everyone and that experiencing firsthand how metals melt and fuse together is the best beginning.

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy

    • 01/31/2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - 810 4TH AVE N, BIRMINGHAM, AL 35203
    Register

    Hack Your Career: DEFCON 205 January Meetup

    Topic: Hack Your Resume – Career Workshop for Everyone
    Date: Friday, January 31, 2025
    ⏰ Time: 7 PM – 9 PM
    Location: Red Mountain Makers

    Ready to take control and hack your way to career success? This interactive workshop is your chance to debug your resume, exploit new job opportunities, and patch your portfolio for the future you want!

    Link to the Event Page: https://discordapp.com/events/893886927793696799/1327712107482845379

    What’s in the Toolbox:

    Guest Panel Discussion:

    • “Standing Out in the Job Market” – Expert panelists drop knowledge applicable across industries.

    Resume Workshop:

    • Peer reviews to fine-tune your resume for tech, arts, or business.
    • Insider tips for customizing resumes to crack any job description.

    Resource Handouts:

    • Snag templates, career guides, and job-hunting checklists to sharpen your tools.

    Cybersecurity Portfolio Tips (and Beyond):

    • Build a portfolio that owns GitHub or showcases your creative/business projects.

    Resume Scanning:

    • Test your resume against ATS systems and get actionable fixes to stay ahead.

    ️ Job Board & Opportunity Sharing:

    • Explore local job leads and share your own finds during our open mic.

    Networking & Q&A:

    • Connect with like-minded pros, ask your burning questions, and share strategies to level up.

    Open to ALL industries and experience levels! Whether you’re in tech, art, marketing, or making a big career shift, this workshop is here to help you hack your way to success.

    Let’s hack the hiring system together. See you at Red Mountain Makers on January 31st!

    https://discordapp.com/events/893886927793696799/1314664154640023635

    • 02/01/2025
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Forge Area
    • 4
    Register

    Making nails has been one the oldest forms of Blacksmithing for centuries. It is usually the first task of any apprentice to learn the basics skills necessary toward becoming a blacksmith.

    This course does not require a lot of strength nor skill-set prior to the class. For these reasons it is the perfect starting lesson for those wanting to try their hand at some old fashioned Blacksmithing. This course will teach students the proper terms, techniques, and protocols required to successfully create usable nails. For anyone looking to get a basic understanding of Blacksmithing, this is the course for you.

    About the Instructor: This class is taught by  Kenneth of Fire & Brimstone Forge.

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class, however minors must be accompanied by an adult. 

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed.

    Please review our Refund and Cancellation Policy.




    • 02/01/2025
    • 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Forge Area
    • 6
    Register

    In this class students will forge a small knife out of a piece of solid stock metal. This lesson will cover material foresight, design vs functionality, and will briefly hit upon types of metal and tempering techniques. The task used to create this knife will involve drawing- stretching out metal in a linear direction, forging out a bevel using hammer control, cutting, and sharpening. This class will involve the challenge of utilizing tongs and will introduce the methods necessary to handle the metal quickly and efficiently. Though this is an intermediate class, no previous knowledge is necessary to take this class. Work level is light to moderate.

    About the Instructor: This class is taught by  Kenneth of Fire & Brimstone Forge.

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class, however minors must be accompanied by an adult. 

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed.

    Please review our Refund and Cancellation Policy.


    • 02/02/2025
    • 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Forge Area
    • 6

    Learn how to forge a knife out of a railroad spike

    This is the perfect class to learn one of the basics of knives-making: balancing durability and hardness of the metal to make the perfect blade!

    Students will utilize a high carbon railroad spike and learn methods that induce carbon into the metal while also learning how to temper in a process called normalization. The metal will then posses both features of a durable and hard metal that is ideal for knives.

    As far as knives are concerned, the harder the steel, the better the edge, however, the harder edge makes for a brittle knife. A balance is needed between the soft flexible metal and the hard brittle metal to achieve a knife that will hold an edge without breaking. In this class more techniques for blade smithing will be covered, including various heat treatments, tapering, and tempering methods used to maximize strength with durability. 

    Prerequisites: We recommend you  complete a beginner blacksmithing class such as Forging Nails prior to taking this class, or having previous experience. 

    About the Instructor: This class is taught by  Kenneth of Fire & Brimstone Forge.

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. 

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed.

    Please review our Refund and Cancellation Policy.

    • 02/03/2025
    • 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Forge Area
    • 3
    Register

    Start your own journey in glass, weather with sculptures or vessels you can begin exploring while the furnace is hot and an assistant is available.

    This is an invite only unless you have taken the prerequisite intro/intermediate glassblowing or have glassblowing experience from another studio.

    $45 per person. Feel free to bring your own tools or supplies. However, tools and annealer time are supplied and glass/color is provided at near cost for those that have a project they can finish.

    Talk through with the instructor and find a plan for how to get to your desired design.

    Note: this is not a guided class, you have access to an assistant for your work. If you need practice on basics this is a great opportunity to do so.

    About the Instructor: Garrett began teaching at a young age, first as a martial arts instructor and later at a trade school for massage therapy. While teaching massage, he found a glass studio in town and was accepted as an apprentice under Daniel Bell of Red Flower Studios and Jeremy Thomley of Hot Glass Mississippi. After about a year, Garrett was hired on as an assistant in the shop. For 2 years he assisted full time in the studio while honing his glass basics. The shop focused on customer experiences and instruction. In an industry where most artists are fighting for four hours of furnace time Garrett was thrown into 12 hour days 6 days a week. After his assistantship Garrett was placed in charge of student glass experiences for 2 seasons.

    During the off time he found his way out to Utah and Texas for more education and glass work experience in other studios. After moving to Birmingham , Garrett began growing his education in furnace building with the help of Charlie Correll of Correll glass studio and now has his own portable furnace for demos and classes on the go allowing him to open his own studio: Whimsies Hot Glass. The name comes from an old glassblowing term for the creative items a glassblower may get to make at the end of the work day for themselves; whimsies are all the beginnings of glassblowers personal creativity and so it will be your beginning as well!

    While his focus and passion is in student experiences, blow your owns and classes Garrett's personal work can be found at local artist and makers markets in the Birmingham area.

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed. The CDC has a guide to acceptable cloth masks that help prevent the spread of infection.

    Refund and Cancellation Policy



    • 02/03/2025
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Woodshop
    • 1
    Register

    Learn the beautiful craft of pen-turning 

    In this introductory course to wood turning, you'll be shown how to turn a beautiful wooden pen on the lathe.

    Over a couple of hours, you'll produce a gorgeous piece that is a perfect present for a dear one (or for yourself!) and learn the basics of woodturning, safety behind the lathe and its operations, as well as the different gouges to use in the process.

    About the Instructor: Terry Tingle is the president of the Alabama Woodturners Association and is a member of The American Association of Woodturners. Terry has been teaching students how to turn pens for years, some of whom have had their exhibitions in Art and Craft Shows throughout Alabama, including Mentone.

    What to wear: You must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long sleeves should be avoided if possible and rolled up if necessary. Long hair must be tied back and dangly necklaces, earrings or other accessories shall be removed before starting the class. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed. Masks may be required depending on circumstances.

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class, though minors must be supervised by a guardian at all times. Please read carefully the disclaimers and guidelines and contact us with any questions or concerns. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy 





    • 02/10/2025
    • 6:01 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Woodshop
    • 3
    Register

    Learn to make an elegant hand-crafted “Baron” Fountain Pen!

    The “Baron” fountain pen is trimmed with nibs, clips and other elements made out of the highest quality silver plating which gives each pen a distinguished look in addition to durability. Experience in turning would be helpful but is not required.  

    The fountain pen features an ultra-smooth threading removable cap that screws on to both the bottom and top of the pen. The Baron Fountain Pen not only is a great looking pen, but it is also light weight and one of the smoothest writing instruments available for everyday use and has a two-tone German made nib with an iridium tip. The artistic fittings are hand worked and polished and the solid metal external components add to the pens expensive and hardy feel.

    The Baron comes with both a siphon pump and blue ink cartridge. This hand-crafted pen will make a unique gift to others or yourself and will be completely one-of-a-kind!

    Each pen will be turned from beautiful exotic woods such as: King Cocobolo, Olivewood, Burmese Rosewood, Cherry Burl, Boxelder Burl, Red Mailee Burl, Bocote, Spalted Tamarind, Box Elder, etc. Students may choose silver plated or gold for the pen kit.

    About the Instructor: Terry Tingle is the president of the Alabama Woodturners Association and is a member of The American Association of Woodturners. Terry has been teaching students how to turn pens for years, some of whom have had their exhibitions in Art and Craft Shows throughout Alabama, including Mentone.

    Are Minors allowed? Yes, accompanied by parent.

    What to wear: You must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long sleeves should be avoided if possible and rolled up if necessary. Long hair must be tied back and dangly necklaces, earrings or other accessories shall be removed before starting the class. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed. Masks may be required depending on circumstances.

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class, though minors must be supervised by a guardian at all times. Please read carefully the disclaimers and guidelines and contact us with any questions or concerns. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy 





    • 02/12/2025
    • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - 3D Printing & Circuit Lab
    • 3
    Register

    In this course, participants will chose a pre-made 3d model and learn how to use RMM's 3d printer ecosystem to bring 3d models to life with our Fused deposition modeling (FDM) printers (AKA filament printers). Prints will run overnight after the class, participants can pick up the completed project within 1 week after the class. 

    For non-members, this class comes with a FREE MONTH of membership (a $40 value). After completing the class, students are invited to use that free month of membership to return during open hours to print additional designs and learn more about 3D printing from other knowledgeable members!

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class. Please contact us with questions. 

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes.  Long hair should be tied back. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed. 


    Refund and Cancellation Policy 


    • 02/12/2025
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Open Project Area
    • 10
    Register

    In this workshop, you will have the opportunity to create an original pewter pendant from small found objects alongside skilled metal artist, Julie Carpenter. With her guidance, your hands-on experience will include pattern designing, mold making, casting, drilling, polishing, and patina application. In addition to your newfound love for metal casting, you will take home a shiny new handmade piece pf pewter art designed and crafted by you!  Feel free to bring your own tiny objects to use in designing your piece. Julie will bring her big collection of small things to share with all students in this process.

    About the Instructor: Julie Carpenter (@juliecarpenterart) has been instructing and sharing her knowledge in the art of metalworking since 2007. She has taught classes and held camps on the fundamentals of oxygen/acetylene (gas) welding, MIG (wire) welding, and pewter jewelry casting to people between the ages of 8 and 85. Julie believes that metal working is for everyone and that experiencing firsthand how metals melt and fuse together is the best beginning.

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy

    • 02/14/2025
    • 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - 810 4TH AVE N, BIRMINGHAM, AL 35203
    • 1
    Register

    Stick Welding Class Description

    Stick welding is known for being one of the more challenging welding processes to master. Therefore, we highly recommend that students without prior welding experience first enroll in our "Intro to MIG" class before taking this course.

    Advantages of Stick Welding:

    Cost-Effective: Very low cost of equipment ownership and maintenance.

    Ideal for Thicker Materials: Excellent for welding materials that are 1/8 inch or thicker.

    No Need for Shielding Gas: Does not require shielding gas, making it suitable for various conditions.

    Versatile in Adverse Conditions: Perfect for use in dirty or windy environments, making it the preferred method for farmers and other outdoor professions.

    What You'll Learn: Students will have the opportunity to learn the fundamental techniques of stick welding and practice these skills with expert feedback.

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed. 

    About the Instructor: Stephen Charles is a former Welding Engineer with many years of experience in production welding and custom fabrication. He has taught hundreds of beginners in the basics of welding and fabrication. Also, he’s pretty funny, but if you don't get a joke, just smile and nod. No one will notice. 

    • 02/14/2025
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Welding Area
    • 1
    Register

    Develop fundamental skills in joining metal objects under the instruction of Stephen Charles, a former Welding Engineer and owner of Metalcraft Creative. This is an introductory class with no prior experience necessary. It includes a crash course in the MIG welding process, metal cutting, grinding, as well as the basics of hand tool use and shop safety.


    Students will leave with a wide familiarity of skills and studio techniques.

    NOTE: This class is a pre-requisite for the Project-Based Metalcraft class.

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed. 

    About the Instructor: Stephen Charles is a former Welding Engineer with many years of experience in production welding and custom fabrication. He has taught hundreds of beginners in the basics of welding and fabrication. Also, he’s pretty funny, so if you don’t have a sense of humor just laugh when everyone else does and no one will notice.

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class, though minors must be supervised by a guardian at all times. Please read carefully the disclaimers and guidelines and contact us with any questions or concerns. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy 


    • 02/15/2025
    • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Forge Area
    • 6
    Register

    Making nails has been one the oldest forms of Blacksmithing for centuries. It is usually the first task of any apprentice to learn the basics skills necessary toward becoming a blacksmith.

    This course does not require a lot of strength nor skill-set prior to the class. For these reasons it is the perfect starting lesson for those wanting to try their hand at some old fashioned Blacksmithing. This course will teach students the proper terms, techniques, and protocols required to successfully create usable nails. For anyone looking to get a basic understanding of Blacksmithing, this is the course for you.

    About the Instructor: This class is taught by  Kenneth of Fire & Brimstone Forge.

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class, however minors must be accompanied by an adult. 

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed.

    Please review our Refund and Cancellation Policy.




    • 02/15/2025
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Woodshop
    • 2
    Register

     Learn the basics of woodturning to make the design of your choice.  This class will cover the fundamentals including how to safely operate a lathe, how to use hand-held turning tools, properties of wood, design considerations, and finishing.  Participants may copy an example design or develop their own.  We will have plenty of wood for practice and creativity.

    Are minors allowed? Only if accompanied by parent.

    What to Wear: You must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in long pants, closed toe and heal shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long sleeves should be avoided. Long hair must be tied back and jewelry should not be worn. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed. Ear plugs are recommended for hearing protection and dust masks are also useful. 

    About the instructor:

    Carl Cummins has been woodturning as a primary activity for over 12 years.  He has studied extensively from books, videos, workshops, symposiums, and formal training from nationally and internationally known leaders in the field including David Ellsworth and Jean-Francois Escoulen.  Instead of specializing, Carl enjoys a wide variety of woodturning projects including bowls, boxes, practical items, and eccentric art pieces.

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class, though minors must be supervised by a guardian at all times. Please read carefully the disclaimers and guidelines and contact us with any questions or concerns. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy 





    • 02/15/2025
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Forge Area
    • 5
    Register

    In this class students will craft a letter opener by flattening and shaping a piece of steel rod into a edged blade. Hammer skills and tolerances will be covered, as well as going over buffing/polishing and the various types of finishes for the blade. This class will involve grinding/sanding and using the buffing wheel. No prior classes or knowledge is required for this class.

    About the Instructor: This class is taught by  Kenneth of Fire & Brimstone Forge.

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class, however minors must be accompanied by an adult. 

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed.

    Please review our Refund and Cancellation Policy.





    • 02/16/2025
    • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Forge Area
    • 6
    Register

    This class demonstrates the effects heating and quenching metal can alter the molecular structure of the steel. One such effect is the ability to create harder steel that more effectively creates sparks when struck and that is less susceptible to dulling. In our case, students will transform a high carbon steel file into a flint striker, the harder steel and its properties are ideal for this project but it comes with the downside of becoming brittle and susceptible to cracking as it cools. This is an ideal project introducing the unique properties of harder specialty steels requiring special heat treatment and proper quenching in oil, a pre-cursor to the various steps repeated in making blades.

    Task involved:  (hammering, drawing/stretching, bending steel, quenching metal, temperature control, using tongs)

    Prerequisites: We recommend you  complete a beginner blacksmithing class such as Forging Nails prior to taking this class, or having previous experience. 

    About the Instructor: This class is taught by  Kenneth of Fire & Brimstone Forge over the past year.

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. 

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed.

    Please review our Refund and Cancellation Policy.




    • 02/16/2025
    • 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Forge Area
    • 3
    Register

    In this class students will learn how to take one metal object and transform it into another in a case of extreme transformation. Students will take old hammers consisting of tool steel and transform the striking surface into an axe. Students will also be introduced to drifting dies designed to widen the eye for proper fitting to an axe handle. From here students will learn how to shape and refine the blade using the grinder and finally finishing it off with a fair amount of sanding before polishing. The final task is the heat treatment to temper the blade to withstand heavy blows. This will involve normalization, oil quenching, and heat tempering.

    About the Instructor: This class is taught by  Kenneth of Fire & Brimstone Forge.

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class, however minors must be accompanied by an adult. 

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed.

    Please review our Refund and Cancellation Policy.

    • 02/17/2025
    • 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Forge Area
    • 6
    Register

    From light bulbs to fiber optic cables, vases to garden sculpture -, everything in glass starts with a "gather". In this class students use traditional glassmaking tools to learn the basics and sculpt hot glass into a desired shape or design. Our focus is to gain the beginning skills of glasswork imperative to working in a "Hot shop." This class is taught by Garrett of Whimsies Hot Glass.

    About the Instructor: Garrett began teaching at a young age, first as a martial arts instructor and later at a trade school for massage therapy. While teaching massage, he found a glass studio in town and was accepted as an apprentice under Daniel Bell of Red Flower Studios and Jeremy Thomley of Hot Glass Mississippi. After about a year, Garrett was hired on as an assistant in the shop. For 2 years he assisted full time in the studio while honing his glass basics. The shop focused on customer experiences and instruction. In an industry where most artists are fighting for four hours of furnace time Garrett was thrown into 12 hour days 6 days a week. After his assistantship Garrett was placed in charge of student glass experiences for 2 seasons.

    During the off time he found his way out to Utah and Texas for more education and glass work experience in other studios. After moving to Birmingham , Garrett began growing his education in furnace building with the help of Charlie Correll of Correll glass studio and now has his own portable furnace for demos and classes on the go allowing him to open his own studio: Whimsies Hot Glass. The name comes from an old glassblowing term for the creative items a glassblower may get to make at the end of the work day for themselves; whimsies are all the beginnings of glassblowers personal creativity and so it will be your beginning as well!

    While his focus and passion is in student experiences, blow your owns and classes Garrett's personal work can be found at local artist and makers markets in the Birmingham area.

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed. The CDC has a guide to acceptable cloth masks that help prevent the spread of infection.

    Refund and Cancellation Policy

    • 02/17/2025
    • 6:01 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Woodshop
    • 3
    Register

    In this class, we will turn a pen using an acrylic pen blank from a wide variety of colors and styles. Acrylic turns much differently from wood and having taken an earlier pen class would be helpful, but not a requirement for this class. Acrylic is much harder than wood and has a different kind of smell. The finished product, if done properly, will have a beautiful, glass-like appearance. Acrylic pens offer a much wider selection of colors and styles than wood. There is a limit of three to this class. The cost of $125.00 will cover all materials, prepared pen blanks, and all supplies for finishing your pen.


    About the Instructor: Terry Tingle is the president of the Alabama Woodturners Association and is a member of The American Association of Woodturners. Terry has been teaching students how to turn pens for years, some of whom have had their exhibitions in Art and Craft Shows throughout Alabama, including Mentone.

    What to wear: You must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long sleeves should be avoided if possible and rolled up if necessary. Long hair must be tied back and dangly necklaces, earrings or other accessories shall be removed before starting the class. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed. Masks may be required depending on circumstances.

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class, though minors must be supervised by a guardian at all times. Please read carefully the disclaimers and guidelines and contact us with any questions or concerns. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy 





    • 02/22/2025
    • 02/23/2025
    • 2 sessions
    • Red Mountain Makers
    • 6
    Register
    In this class students will be lead by a professional prop maker, and metal smith, in the in the process of lost wax/ ceramic shell casting. Students will learn the process of making a wax positive, then the steps necessary to create a ceramic silica mold capable of resisting extreme temperatures while maintaining the ability to pick up extreme detail! Students will learn wax burn out procedures, dipping molds in ceramic, casting bronze, and de-molding. On day one items to be cast in bronze will be created in wax, vented, and dipped several times in a ceramic slurry mixture to build up the necessary thickness required. (The following week will be available to students during normal open hours to complete dipping if not completed during class) On day two students will assist in burning out the wax in preparation of pouring bronze later that evening. This technique is widely used in industry and individuals with the knowledge and skill set are highly sought in the work force.

    Note: Though it is not required, this class strongly suggests the 101 mold-making course before attempting this class to build off of previously learned skills and to expedite workflow. It is recommended that the piece to be cast in metal has been previously made or cast in wax and this can be accomplished within the previous mold making class.

    Work involved –  building a flask “container”, mixing two part compounds, adding release agents, unmolding

    Tools/Materials Utilized- Mold release spray, razor blades, venting red wax, rubber molds. 5 kg of silicon bronze per student, casting furnace, 10 kg graphite crucible for bronze. Borax flux, skimmer, heat resistant safety gear, ceramic slurry, various grits of silica sand, zircon, burn out oven, large metal tray, modeling brown wax, electric eye burner, propane burner, sculpting wax tools, soldering iron, pots, figurine, crucible shank, safety equipment

    What to wear:  At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed.

    About the Instructor: Class is taught by Kenneth of Fire & Brimstone Forge

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy 

    • 02/22/2025
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Woodshop
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Get introduced to the beautiful craft of woodworking by making your own cutting board.

    You will choose from a variety of designs composed of different native hardwoods, learn proper assembling, gluing, sanding and finishing techniques and will be taught how to correctly use thickness planer and orbital sander.

    After this 3-hour course, you will bring home a stylish ~ 8.5" x 11" handmade board that you can show off to your friends and family.

    Check out the designs available to make during this class here


    What to wear: You must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long sleeves should be avoided if possible and rolled up if necessary. Long hair must be tied back and dangly necklaces, earrings or other accessories shall be removed before starting the class. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed.

    About the InstructorTerry Tingle is the president of the Alabama Woodturners Association and is a member of The American Association of Woodturners. Terry has been doing woodworking since 2014, and has taught students how to create cutting board designs, cut segments, glue and use a variety of clamps, and how to use planers and orbital sanders, and how to use the right finishes to preserve cutting boards. Terry is knowledgeable and experienced in making long grain, edge grain, and end grain cutting boards. He especially enjoys seeing the expression of a student who has just learned how to make something that looks great and is so useful. And cutting boards make great gifts!

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class, though minors must be supervised by a guardian at all times. Please read carefully the disclaimers and guidelines and contact us with any questions or concerns. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy 



    • 02/22/2025
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Forge Area
    • 6
    Register

    In this class students will forge a small knife out of a piece of solid stock metal. This lesson will cover material foresight, design vs functionality, and will briefly hit upon types of metal and tempering techniques. The task used to create this knife will involve drawing- stretching out metal in a linear direction, forging out a bevel using hammer control, cutting, and sharpening. This class will involve the challenge of utilizing tongs and will introduce the methods necessary to handle the metal quickly and efficiently. Though this is an intermediate class, no previous knowledge is necessary to take this class. Work level is light to moderate.

    About the Instructor: This class is taught by  Kenneth of Fire & Brimstone Forge.

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class, however minors must be accompanied by an adult. 

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed.

    Please review our Refund and Cancellation Policy.


    • 02/23/2025
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Open Project Area
    • 9
    Register

    In this workshop, you will have the opportunity to create an original pewter pendant from small found objects alongside skilled metal artist, Julie Carpenter. With her guidance, your hands-on experience will include pattern designing, mold making, casting, drilling, polishing, and patina application. In addition to your newfound love for metal casting, you will take home a shiny new handmade piece pf pewter art designed and crafted by you!  Feel free to bring your own tiny objects to use in designing your piece. Julie will bring her big collection of small things to share with all students in this process.

    About the Instructor: Julie Carpenter (@juliecarpenterart) has been instructing and sharing her knowledge in the art of metalworking since 2007. She has taught classes and held camps on the fundamentals of oxygen/acetylene (gas) welding, MIG (wire) welding, and pewter jewelry casting to people between the ages of 8 and 85. Julie believes that metal working is for everyone and that experiencing firsthand how metals melt and fuse together is the best beginning.

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy

    • 03/21/2025
    • 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - 810 4TH AVE N, BIRMINGHAM, AL 35203
    • 2
    Register

    Stick Welding Class Description

    Stick welding is known for being one of the more challenging welding processes to master. Therefore, we highly recommend that students without prior welding experience first enroll in our "Intro to MIG" class before taking this course.

    Advantages of Stick Welding:

    Cost-Effective: Very low cost of equipment ownership and maintenance.

    Ideal for Thicker Materials: Excellent for welding materials that are 1/8 inch or thicker.

    No Need for Shielding Gas: Does not require shielding gas, making it suitable for various conditions.

    Versatile in Adverse Conditions: Perfect for use in dirty or windy environments, making it the preferred method for farmers and other outdoor professions.

    What You'll Learn: Students will have the opportunity to learn the fundamental techniques of stick welding and practice these skills with expert feedback.

    What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear will be provided as needed. 

    About the Instructor: Stephen Charles is a former Welding Engineer with many years of experience in production welding and custom fabrication. He has taught hundreds of beginners in the basics of welding and fabrication. Also, he’s pretty funny, but if you don't get a joke, just smile and nod. No one will notice. 

    • 03/21/2025
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Red Mountain Makers - Welding Area
    • 6
    Register

    Develop fundamental skills in joining metal objects under the instruction of Stephen Charles, a former Welding Engineer and owner of Metalcraft Creative. This is an introductory class with no prior experience necessary. It includes a crash course in the MIG welding process, metal cutting, grinding, as well as the basics of hand tool use and shop safety.

    Students will leave with a wide familiarity of skills and studio techniques.

    NOTE: This class is a pre-requisite for the other welding process classes (stick and TIG) as well as any Project-Based Metalcraft classes.

    What to wear: If you use glasses to read, please bring them. If you can't see, you will struggle welding well. At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex are flammable and should not be worn around welding equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Additional protective gear (hood, jackets, gloves) will be provided as needed. 

    About the Instructor: Stephen Charles is a former Welding Engineer with many years of experience in production welding and custom fabrication. He has taught hundreds of beginners in the basics of welding and fabrication. Also, he’s pretty funny, so if you don’t have a sense of humor just laugh when everyone else does and no one will notice.

    Age: there are no age restrictions to the class, though minors must be supervised by a guardian at all times. Please read carefully the disclaimers and guidelines and contact us with any questions or concerns. 

    Refund and Cancellation Policy 


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