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!
Intro to Iron Casting
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.
Hours & Admission*
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.
General Admission
$285
"We were at Rivers of Steel through the Wounded Warrior Project and it was awesome. I would recommend visiting these guys and having a ball!" —Paul Stajduhar, Metal Arts Workshop Attendee
Location & Directions
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.
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 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.
For more information, contact info@riversofsteel.com.
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