Chainmaking Course

Have you ever listened to your grandparents talking about going to school barefoot, in the snow, uphill both ways? Ever wanted to have a go at one of these ‘proper jobs’ they brag about, and see if the soot and the sweat were really as bad as they claim?

Well, here is your opportunity to put your money where their mouth is.

The team at Mushroom Green Chainshop is delighted to offer instruction in the quintessential Black Country craft of handmade fire welded chain.

Whether you want to learn the skills involved in the manufacture of Tommied chain, or the art required to work off the block; our heritage chainmaker is keen to pass on his skills and knowledge.

Held in the last workshop of its kind, unmoved by the passage of time, this will not just be a lesson in shutting link, it’ll be an experience steeped in local history.

Whether you’re a total novice or a smith looking to master the "shutting link," we’ll tailor the heat to you.

ENQUIRE

    • Introduction to the hearth, the bellows, and managing a forge fire.

    • Learning the "off the block" technique: bending, scarfing, and the art of the fire weld.

    • Mastering the rhythm of the hammer on steel.

    • A guided talk on the local and social history of Cradley Heath.

    • We will discuss the 1910 Women’s Strike, the "foggers," and the shop’s role in the industrial landscape.

    • Introduction to Tommy hammers and specialised blocks to make steel chain from ¼” up to ⅝” in diameter

    • Forge open link chain or choose more complex links such as stud, rattle, or decorative chain.

    • Finishing your piece to take home—a lasting memory forged by your own hands.

  • Capacity: Maximum 2 students per session for a personal experience.

    Physicality: This is a physically demanding experience involving heat and manual labour. Please consider your health before booking.

    Age Limit: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

    Attire: Natural fibres only (cotton/wool). No synthetics. Sturdy, closed-toe footwear is mandatory.

    Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate. No prior blacksmithing experience required.

    Refreshments: Complimentary tea, coffee, and cold drinks are provided throughout the day.

    Lunch: You are welcome to bring a packed lunch to enjoy in the forge, or explore the local area—there are several cafes and supermarkets just a short walk away.

  • Step into the forge and master a critically endangered British craft in its historic home.

    Private Masterclass (1 Student): £260

    A dedicated 1-to-1 full day of tuition. Includes all materials, fuel, and expert guidance as you forge-weld your own chain from scratch. You’ll leave with your finished work and a deep understanding of the trade’s history.

    Joint Experience (2 Students): £420

    The same intensive heritage experience, shared. Bring a friend or partner to work the anvil alongside you and save £100 on the total booking.

    Spectator Add-on: £35

    Perfect for those who want to soak in the atmosphere without the heavy labour. Includes a front-row seat to the process, a deep dive into the local history, and the chance to handle the tools and materials as the work unfolds.

One-Day Course Structure

We can accommodate up to two students at a time, who will receive an in depth lesson in their choice of hand hammered chainmaking disciplines.

mushroom green chainmaking shop

When you step into Mushroom Green, you are stepping into a story of rebellion and resilience. Chainmaking is currently listed as a critically endangered craft. With zero full-time professionals left in the UK, the skills held by our volunteers are among the last in existence.

The Women of Cradley Heath

In 1910, this area became the epicentre of a global movement. Led by the charismatic Mary Macarthur, hundreds of women chainmakers — workers of "sweated labour" — laid down their tools for ten weeks. They fought against poverty wages and "foggers" to secure the first national minimum wage.

During your course, we will explore this history, from the solidarity that won the strike to the darker origins of the industry. We encourage all participants to visit the Luke Perry’s Women Chainmakers Monument in Mary Macarthur Park; a 10-foot monument to the women who forged a better future for us all.