Something that I have always wanted to do, thought of for so long is to take a class to learn how to weld, solder, braise to make my own vessels to design in. The Chicago Ave Fire Arts Center www.cafac.com is located on Chicago Avenue in the old Nokomos Theatre building. There are classes day, evening and weekends. Look at their website for more information. They have an area they show and sell all type of fire art projects from jewelry to stained glass to sculptures.
There are 8 students to a class, men and women of all ages and skill levels. This is another reason it is so fun. The main focus is safety, education and creating. Everything you will need is there. Each student chooses the project they want to complete within the 10 week class schedule. We went on a wonderful field trip to Ambles Machinery and Hardware to choose the materials for our individual projects. Heather, the instructor is with us each step for guidance and direction.This week , number 4 we begin our projects. Up to now we are learning about safety procedures and practicing with the tools and torches. My " butt weld" was the best one in class, by my own judgement. My torch cutting and soldering need some practice. Some I say--no a lot !!!
The outfits are interesting, nothing matches, and everything is for safety. In my imagination I see a line of welding clothes. There are burn holes in them, no open tears,just lots of little holes, boots, and gloves with gauntlets are the best. The safety glasses and # 5 shade glasses are not pretty, but are necessary. Cotton, not synthetic fibers for everything. Go to a second hand store, or your closet, find the painting ,gardening,cleaning the garage clothes,anything is good.
I will post the progress of the project.
Thank you to Duane Boom, one of my friends and students for sharing Chicago Avenue Fire Arts Center information with me.
