In addition to hands on learning at Chappapeela Crafts, we encourage people to look up national, regional and local non-profit education associations, organizations and guilds for further education. 

 

National Associations: 

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The Artist-Blacksmith’s Association of North America is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving, promoting, and sharing technical skills and design excellence in the blacksmith community. We offer education workshops, technical and art publications, grants, awards, conferences, and exhibitions honoring the metal arts.

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Louisiana

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Louisiana Metalsmiths Association (LAMA) is based primarily in the southwest area of the state with many members in Lafayette. You can find info on their monthly meetings and activities on their website: https://www.lama-blacksmith.org/   or on their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/LouisianaMetalsmiths.

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Gulf Coast Blacksmiths Association (GCBA)  is primarily servicing Southeast Louisiana and has meetings in the Orleans/St. Tammany/Tangipahoa Parishes. Their website is https://gulfcoastblacksmith.com/ and their facebook is: https://www.facebook.com/groups/200733510095143.

 

Each group has monthly meetings where they meet at various smiths shops or events.  Each non-profit encourages people to attend the meetings and try their hand at one of the forges.  It's a great way to learn the craft and get to  know people at various stages of their hobby or career. 

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Louisiana Custom Knife Association if you are more interested in blades or connecting with bladesmiths.  https://www.lacustomknives.net/  

Mississippi

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Mississippi Forge Council meets in Jackson, MS and can be found at https://www.msforgecouncil.com/ online or on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MsForgeCouncil

Alabama

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Blacksmithing Supplies

We have blacksmithing coal, $20 for 50 pound sack for sale.