THE CLASS

After a quick safety chat and introductions we will get right to work cutting a fish on the CNC Plasma cutter. From there we will be off on a journey of short demonstrations and lots of hands-on tool time. Die grinders, metal surfacing techniques, shaping and forming steel and the chemistry of torch coloring are among the topics we’ll tackle in this fast paced 2.5 hour class. You’ll walk out of the Salty Sitkan’s workshop with a beautiful Alaskan keepsake made by you!

LOCATION

Classes are held in the Salty Sitkan’s workshop located at 120 Jarvis Street #B - just down the road from the Raptor Center and conveniently located near Harbor Mountain Brewery, tucked right behind the United State Post Office.

The shop is a 20-30 minute walk from downtown at the complimentary bus drop off. The walk is exactly 1 mile and takes you through some of Sitka’s best sites including the Sitka Sea Walk and the Sitka National Historical Park. Once you exit the park on to Sawmill Creek Road, cross Sawmill Creed Road, proceed up Jarvis Street and you are 2 minutes from the shop.

 

TRANSPORTATION

Round Trip transportation from the Sitka Cruise Terminal is included in your class fee via the shuttle company “The Cool Bus.” At the time of booking you will select an option to request ground transportation. If this option is selected you will be contacted a few days before your arrival to coordinate.

CLASS LENGTH

Classes are scheduled to last approximately 2.5 hours. Classes will start each day at 9 am and 1 pm unless otherwise noted on the online scheduler. Transportation to and from the Cruise terminal is approximately 15 minutes each direction via Shuttle Bus.

WHAT TO WEAR

Class participants will be outfitted with the following safety gear:

  • Safety Glasses

  • Hearing protection - over ear & foam plugs available

  • Dust masks

  • Welding Gloves

  • All Students should arrive with close toed shoes

WHAT CAN I MAKE?

As of 2024 the following creatures can be made in the Salty Sitkan Metal Art Classes:

  • King Salmon

  • Coho Salmon

  • Sockeye Salmon

  • Halibut

  • Brown Bear

  • Humpback Whale

  • Orca Whale

  • Sea Otter

  • Dungeness Crab

  • Bald Eagle

  • Jelly Fish

  • Hummingbird

  • Puffin

RESERVATIONS

Please visit the “Book Now” page for current rates - please note there may be local sales tax & booking fees additionally. Full payment is due at time of reservation.

There are no rate reductions for children.

Classes require a minimum of 4 students to run. Minimum age of 12 to participate. 12-15 years of age must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Class participants must sign a release of liability waiver.

Classes will be centered around cruise ship arrival/departure times .

Whole class discounts may be available for groups of 8 or more. Contact Mike via email to inquire.

Because of the compact size of the workshop spectators are not permitted without a class registration fee

CANCELLATION POLICY

A full refund will be given if canceled 24 hours prior to start of class. No refunds will be given within 24 hours of class time. If a class is cancelled by the operator for any reason a full refund will be given.

RISKS & RESPONSIBILITIES

This class is an active class with the use of power tools, torches and other light industrial equipment. The instructor has over a decade of experience keepings students of all ages safe with every variety of power tool. There are associated risks with the use of power tools if safety protocols are not followed. This class is moderately active and is not recommended for students with chronic medical conditions. We do not assume liability for injury, property damage or loss related to participation. Participation is at your own risk. At this time this class is not wheel chair accessible.

CLASS HIGHLIGHTS

PLASMA CUT

Your Fish Blank will be custom cut by an instructor on a CNC Plasma Cutter. Choose from a King, Coho or Sockeye Salmon or go deep with an Alaskan Halibut. New options in 2024 include Brown Bear, Bald Eagle, Humpback Whale, Orca Whale, Dungeness Crab, Hummingbird, Sea Otter, Puffin and more.

DIE GRINDER

You will get into the action with a 2” right angle die grinder and a variety of abrasive discs to turn your ugly dull metal fish into a shiny, sparkling, clean fish ready for shaping and color. You will practice different techniques before applying to your fish.

FORMING & SHAPING

Even Flounders have some shape and your fish will too. You will use a teardrop mallet and a variety of forms to give your fish 3D shape.

Sitka, Alaska Shore Excursion

TORCH COLORING

You will practice creating oxide patinas on some scrap steel and then will use a propane torch to create beautiful browns, purples and blues on your fish. Each student will have a unique coloring that will make your fish tale truly one of a kind.