Log in


Hand Tool Repair & Maintenance with Ben

  • June 28, 2025
  • 10:30 - 14:30
  • 1936 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
  • 3

Registration

  • This is the first time we will be offering this class. Any feedback from members on how to improve the class when it opens to the public is greatly appreciated!
  • This is the first time we will be offering this class. Any feedback from students on how to improve the class when it opens to the public is greatly appreciated!

Register


This class takes HackPGH back to its "Right to Repair" roots! 

Description: This class will instruct students on the maintenance, repair, and diagnosis of hand tools such as chisels, hammers & mallets, small hatchets, shafted punches, small sledges, and more. Attendees are encouraged to bring used one used hand tool under 12" that is either need of repair or determination of its continued usefulness and integrity. If you are unsure if a tool is appropriate for this class, please contact us via the email address at the bottom of this class description. 

Should attendees bring an item to be repaired, steel for wedges and a small selection of wood types will be provided for fabricating new handles. Possible species include include ash, hickory, beech, mahogany, white limba, and others. The proper wood choice is dependent on the item being repaired, and the instructor will help guide students through the process! 

Don't have a tool to bring? No problem. We have a few things in need of repair, plus several ball pein hammers that can be used for practice. Whatever the choice, the student will take something home at the end of class.

Be advised: Not all damages will be or can be fixed during this class, nor is this a course on complete restoration of old tools.   

Requirements: No experience required.  Ages 16+, minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. As this is an inaugural class, we are limiting the class size. Any feedback for the instructor and organization would be appreciated after the class session. 

Safety requirements:  No open-toed or cloth shoes. Long hair should be tied back, and dangling jewelry should be removed. Any necessary PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as eye and ear protection will be provided. 

Date & Time: Saturday, June 28th from 10:30am-2:30pm

Ben will be available after class is finished. Please note that we are trying to work out how long to make future sessions.

Office hours:  Students can return to HackPGH for an optional weekend appointment if further work is necessary - by appointment only!

Breaks:  Several breaks will be taken throughout the class. Bottled water, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are available for free from our coffee bar. Light snacks will be provided for the breaks during this class session. Other snacks and drinks can be purchased from our vending machines.

Cost: $75 ($70 for HackPGH members) - discounted cost for this first-ever session.

  • Payment is due at registration to save your spot in the class!
  • If you plan to pay with cash, you must contact us at the email below to make payment arrangements. If payment has not been received within four days of the class, your spot in the class will be forfeited.
  • No-shows will NOT be refunded. If you need to cancel, please contact HackPGH at least 48 hours before the class date!

Instructor: Ben Kranking

Class limit: 4 students

Contact email: info(at)hackpittsburgh.org

Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software