About

BARN member: $34 (One session)
Non-member: $37 (One session)
Open to 16 years and older

This class is an introduction to MIG welding, a type that's relatively easy to learn and suitable for joining or repairing mild steel parts up to 1/2 inch thick.

MIG stands for "metal inert gas," although a more formal name for this type of welding is metal arc welding (GMAW). It's less formally called "wire feed." Whatever the term, it's done with a welding gun that melts a continuous wire electrode -- the "wire feed" -- while also releasing an inert gas that shields the molten metal from contamination, resulting in a strong bond.

In this hands-on class, you will learn how to operate a MIG welder safely, discuss the science behind the process, and get an introduction to welding skills. This includes how to prepare mild steel for welding, how to perform a basic weld bead, and how to form joints such as lap welds, butt welds, t-joints and corners.

There isn't time in this two-hour class to create a project, but you will learn whether you want to explore MIG welding more and whether it is a suitable type of welding for projects you might have in mind.

No experience is necessary. There is a $20 materials fee, payable to the instructor at the first class. All safety gear, tools and materials are provided. Students must wear closed-toe shoes and natural-fiber clothing (cotton or wool) with long sleeves.