You have questions. We have answers. Check the list below — if we haven’t anticipated your question, please email it to us at info@desertmetalcraft.org.
What is your refund policy?
No refunds will be issued for purchases older than 60 days, you can still have credit if the following criteria are satisfied. Four or more weeks before class begins, the class fee is 100% refundable or 100% of the fee paid can be used as credit toward future classes (pending availability and excluding master classes). The fee is 50% refundable if cancellation occurs 2-4 weeks before class begins, and 50% of the fee paid can be used as credit toward future classes (pending availability and excluding master classes). If you cancel less than 2 weeks before class begins, we regret that the fee is not refundable and cannot be used as credit toward future classes. This ensures we have time to fill last-minute course vacancies. Cancelation fees may apply. All refunds will be subject to a 6% processing fee deducted from the refund amount.
What should I bring to a class?
Plenty of water (or your favorite electrolyte fluid)! We usually have a water cooler and some backup bottled water, but it goes fast. Same goes for snacks. Smithing is hot, demanding work, so bring what you need to get you through the class. We provide all tools and safetywear. We have welding gloves you can use, but we suggest bringing a pair of leather gardening/handyman gloves.
What should I wear to a class?
No synthetic fibers, only clothing and footwear made from natural materials, such as cotton, canvas, wool, linen, silk, leather, hemp and so on. No open-toed shoes. Steel-toed footwear recommended but not mandatory. Please wear long sleeves for welding; short sleeves are fine for general smithing. Shorts are never OK.
What courses do we offer?
All our course offerings are listed on the Courses/Enroll page. Once you click ENROLL and get to the online store, you can see whether classes are sold out or still enrolling.
What is your youth drop-off and pickup policy?
Our late pickup policy states that children must be picked up by the end of class time each day. If a child is not picked up on time, a late fee of $25 will be charged for every 15 minutes past the scheduled pick-up time. If a child has not been picked up within 30 minutes of the scheduled pick-up time and we have not been able to reach a parent or emergency contact, we will contact the local authorities for assistance. It is important to prioritize the safety and well-being of all children in our care, and we appreciate your cooperation in adhering to our pickup policy.
What is the age limit for students?
Adult
Age 16 and above. However, all students younger than 18 must have a parent or guardian sign a waiver on their behalf (you can do this at the start of the first class).
Youth
Ages 12-17. Youth classes have fewer students (or more instructors) so we can give them more personalized attention and coaching. All youth students must have a parent or guardian sign a waiver on their behalf (you can do this at the start of the first class). Parents/guardians don’t need to stay for the class, but are welcome to join in after paying the class fee. For safety reasons, nonstudents cannot remain in the shop as observers.
My youth kid has done this before and is super talented. Can I move them up a grade?
We’ll keep a close eye on all students and assess when and if they are ready to graduate to the next level.