Next Level Iron Art Molds! Advanced Scratchblock Techniques

Take your iron art mold to the next level with this advanced technique class! During this class, you'll learn how to carve your scratchblock to make even more intricate designs. You'll have the chance to learn techniques like undercutting to make your designs pop off the block, using depth to your advantage, and how to use the back of the block to create a free standing shape. Bring your design and learn all the unique ways to carve it to life! This class is perfect if you've made a mold or two but want to learn more! 

Your completed mold will be filled with cast iron on Sunday, September 14 during our annual Arts on Fire event, by a crew of iron artists from all over NC. Join us that day to watch your mold get filled and discover the world of fire art through demonstrations, classes, vendors, and more!

Arts on Fire is a sponsored project of the Arts Council of Winston-Salem & Forsyth County and funded through Arts for EveryBody Community Project Grant.

Meet Nancey Cost, Arts on Fire Artist in Residence 2025

Nancey has been a lifelong crafter and artist in many different media. Besides tie-dye, over the years she has enjoyed crocheting, sewing, cake decorating, glass blowing, pottery, cast iron and has even dabbled in wood turning and welding. It brings her much joy to help others tap into their creative being. In her day job as an Architectural Designer she loves bringing her creativity to the table to help people realize their dreams in creating a home they love.

Nancey is the Arts on Fire Artist in Residence for 2025. As one of Mixxer's most skilled scratchblock artists, Nancey has been making iron art molds since the first year of Mixxer's iron pour. Most recognizable for her sea animals, using unique undercutting techniques for folks who have seen her work in past years. This year, as the Arts on Fire Artist in Residence, she is offering multiple unique scratchblock class offerings to others on how to make even more amazing iron art. Additionally, she has been working to aid in the creation of a Raku pottery kiln, which will make its debut firing during the Arts on Fire finale event on September 14.

Makers under the age of 16 are required to be accompanied by an adult. For any questions, please email workshops@wsmixxer.org