LedfordWorks.com

Class Options

Railroad Spike
Class

4 Hours

$250

per person

More Info

Railroad Spike Class

4 hours
Morning and afternoon sessions available.
Create your very own beautiful knife out of a railroad spike.
Fun and challenging. Beginners welcome!
Minimum age: 15. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Up to 8 guests per session.

Custom Knife-Making Class

2 Days

$1,000

per person

More Info

2-Day Custom Knife-Making Class

Upcoming Class Schedule
- Kitchen Knife Class : 09/27/25 - 09/28/25
- Hunting Knife Class : 10/11/25 - 10/12/25
- Kitchen Knife Class : 10/25/25 - 10/26/25
- Kitchen Knife Class : 02/07/26 - 02/08/26
- Hunting Knife Class : 02/21/26 - 02/22/26
- Kitchen Knife Class : 03/28/26 - 03/29/26
- Hunting Knife Class : 04/18/26 - 04/19/26
2 days, 9 am - 4 pm each day
Intermediate knife makers and beginners welcome.
During this two day class we will be working with a piece of high carbon steel to build a simple yet ready to use hunting knife.
Day 1: We will focus on the forging of the knife as well as grinding the knife to shape and grinding a rough bevel on the blade. We will also be covering the heat treating of the blade. You will learn how to properly harden the particular steel that we are working with.
Day 2: We will begin by working on the finish work of the blade, and then begin assembling the handle. We will then be sculpting and sanding the handle to ensure a great and comfortable grip, lastly we will finish off the day by going over how to get a razor sharp edge on your knife.
After the class you will be given a sheath to go with your knife.
Each knife will be modeled by the knife in the pictures but minor changes can be made.
Hunting Knife Photos
Kitchen Knife Photos
Lunch will be provided at the shop during one of the two days, and the other day we will go out to eat at a local restaurant in town.
Lodging is not provided. We would recommend that you stay somewhere in Hiawassee or Blairsville Ga at a hotel or airbnb.
Please feel free to call and ask any questions!
Minimum age: 15. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Custom Knife-Making Class

3 Days

$1,500

per person

More Info

3-Day Custom Knife-Making Class

3 days, 9 am - 4 pm each day
This class is for knife-makers with some experience who are looking to take it to the next level!
During this three day class we will focus on making a high end, highly detailed hunting knife.
We will be working with a piece of high carbon steel to build a simple yet ready to use hunting knife.
Day 1: Forging, rough grinding and going over heat treat.
Day 2: Cleaning up the knife on the grinder and hand sanding the blade
Day 3: Fitting, sculpting and hand handing the handle to achieve best grip. Sharpending the blade to give you a razor sharp edge. Learning how to care for your knife.
After the class you will be given a sheath to go with your knife.
Each knife will be modeled by the knife in the pictures but minor changes can be made.
Hunting Knife Photos
Kitchen Knife Photos
Lunch will be provided at the shop two of the three days, and the other day we will go out to eat at a local restaurant in town.
Lodging is not provided. We would recommend that you stay somewhere in Hiawassee or Blairsville Ga at a hotel or airbnb.
Please feel free to call and ask any questions!
Minimum age: 15. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Custom Knife-Making Class

4 Days

$2,000

per person

More Info

4-Day Custom Knife-Making Class

Upcoming Class Schedule
- Kitchen Knife Class : 10/20/25 - 10/23/25
- Hunting Knife Class : 11/13/25 - 11/16/25
- Kitchen Knife Class : 12/01/25 - 12/04/25
- Kitchen Knife Class : 02/16/26 - 02/19/26
- Hunting Knife Class : 03/12/26 - 03/15/26
- Kitchen Knife Class : 04/20/26 - 04/23/26
4 days, 9 am - 4 pm each day
This class does not require prior experience, but some knowledge of knife-making would be helpful.
During this four day class you will be making your very own damascus hunting knife.
You will make the damascus from scratch and then making a knife from the damascus billet.
Day 1: We will focus on creating our damascus billet and forging out the blade.
Day 2: Rough grinding of the blade and heat treating the steel.
Day 3: Sanding the blade to get a nice finish on the steel, then etching the blade.
Day 4: Putting a handle onto the blade and sculpting the handle to properly fit you, then going over how to get a razor sharp blade.
Each knife will be modeled by the knife in the pictures but minor changes can be made.
Hunting Knife Photos
Kitchen Knife Photos
Lunch will be provided at the shop two of the three days, and the other two days we will go out to eat at a local restaurant in town.
Lodging is not provided. We would recommend that you stay somewhere in Hiawassee or Blairsville Ga at a hotel or airbnb.
Please feel free to call and ask any questions!
Minimum age: 15. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Purchase Gift Certificates

Gift certificates are available for any of our classes or for any amount.

Purchase

Custom Ax-Making Class

Coming Soon!

Details and sign-up opportunities coming soon!

Special Events

We can make a special event even more special!
Contact us to discuss.

Our classes are led and taught by 2-time "Forged in Fire" finalist Caleb Ledford
In Person in Young Harris, Georgia

Over 300 5-star reviews on airbnb! And counting!
Click to Read Some.

Never made a knife before?

Perfect! Impress your friends when you show them your amazing functional work of art. Never made a knife before? Perfect! Impress your friends when you show them your amazing functional work of art.

This is hands-on fun!

In our 4-hour class, students will learn to create a beautiful knife out of a railroad spike. Learn how to control & heat metal in the forge then how to properly hold the metal while forging it with a hammer. Finally some grinding, beveling and heat treating.

"Blood, sweat, and tears"

Well, we certainly hope there will be no tears...or blood! But there will definitely be a lot of sweat! So be prepared to work hard and feel VERY accomplished when you finish your project!

Opportunities for everyone!

Our classes are great for individuals, couples, families, friends, small groups and corporate outings. Group rates are available. We can even link you to other opportunities in the area to complement your class and enhance your experience in the beautiful North Georgia mountains!

A bigger challenge awaits!

For folks wanting to try something more challenging, we offer 2-, 3- and 4-day classes tailored to your desires and skill level. Scroll down for more information or to get started signing up!

Our Newly Renovated and Expanded Workshop

Discover the Wonders of the North Georgia Mountains

We're not the only hidden gem in the North Georgia Mountains! There's a treasure trove of activities and attractions for visitors. From the charming towns of Blairsville, Hiawassee, and Blue Ridge to the stunning natural wonders surrounding them, there's a little something to explore for everyone in this picturesque region. Click or tap an option below for details:

Outdoor Adventures

Cultural Experiences

Natural Wonders

Seasonal Activities

Family-Friendly Attractions

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking and Nature Trails

The North Georgia Mountains are a hiker's paradise. Explore the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the region, offering breathtaking views and challenging terrain. For a less strenuous option, visit Vogel State Park near Blairsville, where you can enjoy scenic trails around Lake Trahlyta.

Water Activities

Lake Chatuge in Hiawassee provides excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Rent a pontoon boat or kayak to explore the lake's 132 miles of shoreline. For a more thrilling experience, try whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River, just a short drive from Blue Ridge.

Cultural Experiences

Blacksmithing at Ledford Works

For a truly unique and hands-on experience, take a class at Ledford Works in Young Harris. Led by two-time "Forged in Fire" finalist Caleb Ledford, these classes offer an opportunity to learn the ancient art of blacksmithing. In the 4-hour Railroad Spike Class, you'll create your own functional work of art from start to finish. For those seeking a more in-depth experience, Ledford Works also offers 2-day custom knife-making classes.

Mountain Arts and Crafts

Explore the rich Appalachian culture through local arts and crafts. Visit the Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia in Sautee Nacoochee to learn about the region's pottery traditions. In downtown Blue Ridge, you'll find numerous galleries showcasing work by local artists.

Natural Wonders

Brasstown Bald

As the highest point in Georgia at 4,784 feet above sea level, Brasstown Bald offers spectacular views of four states on a clear day. Visit the museum at the summit to learn about the area's natural history, or hike the surrounding trails for an immersive forest experience.

Tallulah Gorge State Park

Explore the stunning 1,000-foot-deep Tallulah Gorge and its series of waterfalls. Walk across the suspension bridge 80 feet above the canyon floor for breathtaking views. Tallulah Gorge has a rich history dating back to its days as a Victorian resort town. Today, it stands as a testament to nature’s power and beauty. The park features an Interpretive Center where you can learn about the area's history and ecology through exhibits.

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Embark on a nostalgic journey through the Chattahoochee National Forest on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. This 26-mile round trip takes you along the Toccoa River to the charming twin border towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee.

UPDATE 2024: “The Blue Ridge Parkway between mile post 200.1 (Sunbelt Rd.) in Virginia, and mile post 469 at Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cherokee, NC remains closed as emergency stabilization efforts and damage assessments continue in the wake of significant, and in some areas catastrophic, damage from Hurricane Helene.” (Source) Check for updates here.

Seasonal Activities

Fall Foliage

Experience the breathtaking autumn colors that paint the North Georgia Mountains from late September through early November. Take a scenic drive or hike for the best views. Check local leaf-watching resources for updates on peak viewing times. Dress warmly for cooler autumn nights, and don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes that await you in the North Georgia Mountains.

Apple Picking

Visit one of the many apple orchards in the region, especially during the fall harvest season. Mercier Orchards near Blue Ridge offers apple picking, a bakery, and a hard cider tasting room.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Gourd Place Museum

Located in Helen, this unique museum showcases over 200 gourds from 23 different countries. Admire incredible gourd art and explore the retail shop and beautiful grounds.

Please note that visits to The Gourd Place Museum are by appointment only, so it's advisable to contact them ahead of time to schedule your visit.

Gold Mining Experience

In Dahlonega, venture 200 feet underground to explore the Consolidated Gold Mines, a relic from the area's gold rush days. After your tour, try your hand at panning for gold.

About Us

Pride, Passion, Hard Work, Amazing Results

Creating quality products is a passion, not just a hobby.

Careful attention to detail in every project.

Helping others learn and enjoy metalworking.

Forged In Fire

Season 8, Episode 9
"Beat the Unbeaten"

Premiere: January 19, 2022, 9pm, The History Channel Watch It!

After taking down 2 other competitors, Caleb went to the final round of "Forged In Fire - Beat the Unbeaten".
It was close, and he gave 6-time champion Ben Abbott a run for his money. But Ben made it win #7. Congratulation Caleb on another great showing!

Season 7, Episode 29
"Baby Boomer vs Gen Z"

Permiere: April 22, 2020, 9pm, The History Channel Watch It!

Caleb's first appearance on the popular "Forged In Fire" competition premiered Wednesday, April 22, 2020, at 9 pm on the History Channel.
It was a lot of fun, a ton of hard work and very challenging. He met a lot of great people and really enjoyed competing against some of the finest.
The odds on favorite to win, Caleb's handle broke during the final testing phase and he finished as the runner up. No doubt he will be back for revenge at some point!

Gallery

Sample knives are shown. Price ranges may vary depending on size, materials and time to make.
If you are interested in placing a custom order, scroll down to the "Contact Us / Custom Orders" section.
Click or tap an image for a larger picture.

Damascus Chef Knife
$500 - $700

Damascus Bowie Knife
$400 - $500

Integral Bolster Hunting Knife
$400 - $500

Custom Viking Sax
$500 - $600

Integral Bolster Chef Knife
$500 - $700

Forged in Fire Sword
Not for Sale

Damascus Bowie Knife
$400 - $500

Contact Us / Custom Orders

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Metalwork Is What We Do!

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