Forged Bamboo Desk Lamp

Intermediate Blacksmithing Workshop This two-day workshop focuses on designing and forging a sculptural desk lamp inspired by the form and growth of bamboo. The class is geared toward students with intermediate forging skills who are ready to combine traditional hand forging with light fabrication techniques. Over the course of two 6-hour days, students will complete a fully functional forged steel desk fixture, including a wired socket and base. Skills Covered Participants will deepen their skills in both forging and fabrication, including: Forging controlled tapers and organic forms Upsetting and isolating material for bamboo “nodes” Hot piercing and shaping irregular openings Riveting and mechanical assembly Forging and texturing leaf forms Basic fabrication techniques: Drilling Tapping Welding (MIG or stick, depending on shop setup) Layout and proportional design for functional objects Basic lamp wiring and socket installation Materials & Construction Students will work with the following materials: 3/8” steel plate for the base 3/8” round stock for forged leaves 3/4” Schedule 40 pipe for the bamboo stalk Lamp socket and wiring components (provided) The project emphasizes intentional surface texture, clean joinery, and thoughtful transitions between forged and fabricated elements. Finished Project By the end of the class, each student will leave with: A completed forged steel desk lamp A deeper understanding of combining sculptural forging with functional design Practical experience integrating electrical components Schedule Day 1: Forging the bamboo stalk, nodes, leaves, and base components Day 2: Piercing, riveting, fabrication, welding, final assembly, and wiring