Hooks and Hairpins

This three-hour introductory workshop is a great way to explore the art of blacksmithing and create something unique. Participants will learn the basics of forging steel and use essential blacksmithing tools to create a steel hook or hairpin to take home. These sessions are led by Rivers of Steel staff artist and bladesmith Jared Ondovchik (aka Artifact Metalworks).

Special holiday workshops:

Halloween Date Nights – Get spooky during this three-hour Halloween-themed couples’ workshop and learn the basics of blacksmithing. Bring a friend or significant other and work together to learn the basics of forging steel and using essential blacksmithing tools. Individuals may also attend, couples not mandatory.

October 23, 2025 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. – Create a spooky steel snake!
October 30, 2025 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. – Create your own steel skull!  

Holiday Ornaments –– Get in the holiday spirit by hammering hot metal! This three-hour introductory workshop is a great way to explore the art of blacksmithing and create a unique holiday ornament. Participants will learn the basics of forging steel and use essential blacksmithing tools to shape the metal into a tree or leaf design to take home. 

November 9, and December 7, 2025 from 1:00-4:00 p.m.

By purchasing tickets for a tour or event at the Carrie Blast Furnaces, you consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed which can be found on our website. 

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.

• What to wear: The majority of this program is indoors. However, the Power House is not temperature controlled; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Sneakers or boots are recommended. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited. 
• Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms, hand washing stations, and hand sanitizer are available. Food amenities are not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
• Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
• Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available and the ramp to the workshop space is ADA compliant. However, the grounds to the space may not be accessible for all wheelchairs. Contact us for details and options.
• COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies. 
• Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
• Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
  
• Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley. The address is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.

Thank you for following these guidelines. We wish you to have the best visit possible, and appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the visitor experience.