Armour-smithing Workshop at the Rare Trades Centre

Bring out your inner medieval warrior with this two-day armour smithing experience with armourer, Rob Hayes.

Medieval armour reached its height during the 15th century. Knights and men at arms across Europe were clad in well fitting armour of steel plate that was both highly protective and flexible.

In this workshop, you will learn how to make an arm harness consisting of vambraces (forearm), couters (elbows), and rearbraces (upper arm) in the high medieval gothic style, custom fit entirely to your measurements. Advanced students may also have the opportunity to work on a set of pauldrons (shoulders).

No previous experience is required to participate in this workshop. Students who have completed Rob’s Basic Armouring (Vambraces) Workshop are welcome to bring along their vambraces to upgrade to a full arm harness.

Held at Ballarat’s Australian Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades, a world-class facility dedicated to learning and preserving Australia’s rare arts and trades through a series of workshops, masterclasses, events, and residencies.