MIG Welding a Keepsake Box
Dates: May 31 – June 5, 2026
Skill Level: Open to All Skill Levels
Focus Areas: Sculpture, Metals
Course Fee: $852.00
Learn the fundamentals of metal fabrication in MIG Welding a Keepsake Box, a hands-on workshop designed to introduce students to welding, shaping, and finishing techniques through the creation of a small steel keepsake box with a lid.
Open to all skill levels, this course provides a practical and approachable introduction to MIG welding while guiding participants through the full process of designing and constructing a functional metal object.
Workshop Overview
Students will begin with foundational practice welds on scrap steel to build confidence and control before moving into full project fabrication. From there, participants will design and construct their keepsake boxes using sheet metal layout and cutting techniques.
Skills and techniques covered include:
- MIG welding fundamentals and safe operation
- Sheet metal layout, cutting, and fabrication
- Safe use of handheld tools including plasma torch and angle grinders
- Introduction to forge and anvil work for handle creation
- Decorative metal forming and finishing techniques
Students will also explore methods for creating custom handles and functional design elements using basic blacksmithing techniques.
Finishing & Surface Treatment
The workshop concludes with surface finishing and patina application, including:
- Gunmetal patinas
- Surface oxidation and finishing effects
- Protective and aesthetic finishing techniques
A Functional Metalworking Experience
By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with a completed steel keepsake box and a strong foundational understanding of MIG welding and metal fabrication. This course is ideal for anyone interested in sculpture, functional design, or beginning metalwork in a hands-on studio environment.
Learn More – https://arrowmont.org/workshop/mig-welding-a-keepsake-box/
