Over the weekend spanning the 19th to 21st of September 2025, the In Hand Forum, is an immersive, hands-on exploration of ancient heritage skills through public talks and workshops.
Furnace Festivals Ireland bring their bloomery iron smelting school to the InHand forum. Smelting is the ancient method of turning natural organic oxides that grow in the bog into metallic iron and steel.
This event is a hands on three day greensand casting workshop, where you'll learn the fundamentals of metal casting from start to finish. Lead by professional founder Ciaran Patterson, participants will explore mould making techniques and methods, pattern design considerations, and best practice metal pouring.
Join us for a hands-on weekend workshop exploring the art of stone carving. Designed for beginners, this immersive experience introduces the fundamental tools and techniques used to shape stone, with a special focus on relief sculpture—a unique art form that bridges the gap between drawing and three-dimensional sculpture.
Dominic Keogh and friends will guide participants through the process of dry stone construction. With attention on preparation foundations and carving quoin stones, the weekend long course will provide an invaluable resource for anyone interested in our stone heritage.
Forged In Ireland is a passionate not for profit association dedicated to preserving and advancing the art of traditional metal crafts across the country. Their group is a collective of skilled craftsmen and women, spanning all levels of smithing expertise from enthusiastic beginners to seasoned professionals.
Killian O’Flaherty, an 8th generation mason will speak about the 200 year history of Ballyknocken Granite, it’s contemporary use and its viability as a living craft. With his sister Petra being the first registered Irish woman stone mason apprentice in 30 years, O’Flaherty Stone is transforming the industry in Ireland.
Archaeologist Paul Rondelez will give an overview of the evidence for the smelting of iron ore and the further forging of the metal in Co. Wicklow over a period of about 2500 years and this in its international setting.
Archaeologist Christiaan Corlett will explore the small number of stonecutters who were responsible for the majority of local 18th century headstones. Perhaps less well-known is just how important many of these headstones are from an art historical perspective.
Evelyn Murray – The Art of the Ask: Funding for the Fearless Creative Evelyn Murray is one of the founding members, current project lead & driving force behind the craft platform Made in Wicklow.She works with local authorities and cultural organisations to promote the belief that creativity deserves both recognition — and resources.
Mike Carswell – Charcoal and Sustainable Forestry Professional coppice worker, musician, and craftsman Mike Carswell presents an overview of the sustainable making of charcoal from managed forestry wood.He discusses its current uses and potential future technologies.
Carmel O'Toole – Historical Discovery of Lead Ore Local Historian Carmel O'Toole shares the fascinating story of the 1726 discovery of lead ore in Ballinafunshoge Glenmalure by employees of John Hayes of Ballinasclash.She explores how it was later developed across Glenmalure, Glendalough, and Glendasan.