In this introductory course you will learn how to fabricate in metal and use different tools to build a metal flower. In this class you'll use a plasma cutter to cut your pieces, create holes with a drill press, and clean them with the angle grinder or bench grinder and weld them together. This class is designed to be one weekend starting Saturday, August 29th from 10:00AM - 4:00PM and Sunday, August. 30th from 10:00AM - 4:00PM You must have previously taken the Mig Welding 101 class to participate.
Be advised: You must be wearing closed-toe shoes, long pants, and a long-sleeve shirt. Cotton and leather clothing only (no polyester). If you are not dressed appropriately, you will not be able to participate in the class. Please also be sure to bring a bottle of water with you and reading glasses (if needed)!
The class is taught by Gabi Madrid, a local Atlanta artist. Gabi Madrid is a creative fabricator and fine artist based in Atlanta, GA. In 2018, they began working with blacksmiths at the Goat Farm Arts Center and learned to forge, weld, and fabricate in metal. Following that, they worked in cabinetry and construction, which led them to building sets for movies and TV shows. After leaving the film industry, Madrid began working on their own projects and a teaching career. This led them to become an instructor at local makerspaces and teach others how to weld and build their own projects. Learn more about Gabi athttps://www.gabimadrid.com/
Day 1
Part 1: Shop Safety, Torch Cutting & Layout

• Shop orientation and safety procedures
• Introduction to oxy-acetylene equipment
• Torch setup and cutting demonstration
• Measuring, layout, and torch cutting practice

Lunch
Part 2: Angle Grinder Cutting & Surface Preparation

• Angle grinder safety and operation
• Cutting and edge refinement
• Bench grinder introduction
• Surface preparation for welding

Day 2
Part 1: MIG Welding Fundamentals

• Welding safety review
• MIG welder setup and machine controls
• Welding demonstrations
• Practice welds and tack welding
• Begin project assembly

Lunch
Part 2: Project Assembly & Finishing

• Complete welded assembly
• Heat-forming techniques (as applicable)
• Grinding, sanding, and finishing
• Project completion, critique, shop cleanup, and course wrap-up