Iron casting is a community workshop experience! Intro to Iron participants work with experienced Rivers of Steel teaching artists to learn the basics of foundry work and an overview of the iron-casting process step by step. No prior experience necessary. This three-day workshop covers multi-part mold and pattern design, lost-wax casting, resin-bonded sand molds, and iron casting. It is recommended that participants come to the workshop with either an existing object / model they would like to mold and cast. Not sure what to make? No worries. Our team has a range of pre-made wax and rubber objects that can be customized. The course results in your own unique design cast in solid iron! Participants can anticipate creating one or two cast iron objects roughly the size of a loaf of bread

Please note that we have updated our registration process and will ask you to provide information on your project prior to registering for the workshop. Please answer to the best of your knowledge.

Registration includes access to the Carrie Blast Furnaces foundry daily between 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. and the ultimate experience of participating in an iron pour from a coke-fired cupola—just like the historic furnaces onsite!

All items for the workshop will be cast on Saturday (June 29 & October 5, 2024), time of day may vary. Cooled castings can be picked up on the following Sunday.

Please note that the iron-casting operation is scheduled from 1:00 – 8:00 p.m., but it can often last eight or more hours. The actual start time for the casting period is determined the day of the event, based on mold count, outdoor temperature, and other factors. Additionally, the pick-up window is 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. However, it may be later than anticipated if the casting operation lasts long into the previous evening. Check with Rivers of Steel Metal Arts staff on the casting date for more specific information.

Intro to Iron Casting workshops include up to 250 lbs. of sand and corresponding chemical, waste removal and related foundry consumables. Sand and chemical needs beyond this allotted amount are available for $.31/lb. Any additional material fees must be paid upon pick up of the final castings at the end of the workshop period. 

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: Clothing you can get dirty. If you would like to participate in the casting portion of the workshop then work boots are required footwear. We have all other necessary safety gear on site. The workshop space is not temperature controlled; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven – sensible shoes are a must. 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 there is an ADA ramp into the Power House where workshops are held. The surrounding grounds are not wheelchair accessible, but some assistance is available. Inquire for details.
• COVID-19: 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.