Work with experienced Rivers of Steel teaching artists and visiting artists to learn the basics of foundry work, including pattern and mold-making. It’s a step-by-step overview of the iron-casting process!
Work with experienced Rivers of Steel teaching artists and visiting artists to learn the basics of foundry work, including pattern and mold-making. It’s a step-by-step overview of the iron-casting process!
Iron casting is a community workshop experience!
Intro to Iron Casting participants work with experienced Rivers of Steel teaching artists to learn the basics of foundry work, pattern and mold-making, and receive a step-by-step overview of the iron-casting process. No prior experience necessary. This workshop covers multi-part mold and pattern design, lost-wax casting, resin-bonded sand molds, and experience participating in an iron-casting demonstration. The course results in your own unique design(s) cast in solid iron!
All items for the workshop will be cast on Saturday, June 29. 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 are required to be paid upon pick up of the final castings.
This program is a three-day workshop offered Thursday through Saturday, May 29 – 31, and October 2 – 4, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
$285
*Workshops are limited to 15 participants.
The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley.
The address for the National Historic Landmark is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
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.
such as tours, workshops, and festivals happening at each unique attraction.
