Sparks, Steel, and Confidence in Two Hours

Intro to Welding

If you’ve ever wanted to strike your first arc or demystify what really happens when metal liquefies + reforms into bonded metal, this class is for you. In just two hours, Kelly will introduce you to the power and precision of MIG welding in a way that’s approachable, safe, and surprisingly fun.

He begins by walking you through how the machine works — opening the welder, breaking down its parts, and explaining the “why” behind the settings. Before you ever gear up, you’ll learn Kelly’s signature hand exercises to practice smooth, controlled motion — the foundation of every great weld.

Then it’s time to burn metal. Under Kelly’s watchful eye, you’ll learn to dial in your machine, recognize the sound of a perfect weld, and experiment with a variety of techniques — from strong horizontal seams to vertical welds and patching holes.

Whether you leave with a newfound hobby, creative spark, or inspiration to pursue a welding career, you’ll walk away with the confidence that comes from mastering one of the most empowering skills there is.

Use the blue human-powered chat widget in the lower right corner to start a conversation about scheduling your Intro to Welding workshop.

Ways to Participate:

Private Session — one-on-one instruction with Kelly tailored to your goals

Partner Session — bring a friend, sibling, partner, or parent for a creative and unforgettable experience together

Small Groups — family, friend or co-worker groups of 4-8 people for the most unique bonding or team-building experience

Meet your mentor

Kelly R Ludeking

Sculptor :: Fabricator :: Instructor

Did you know the “R” in KRL doesn’t actually stand for Renaissance?
It might as well.

That one word sums up Kelly’s approach to life as a sculptor, fabricator, consultant and metal arts instructor. He reimagines materials to solve complex challenges. He renews curiosity and reverence for metal, not just as an industrial staple shaping the world around us, but as a creative force reshaping the world within us. And he reignites the spark of ingenuity in his students, expanding what’s possible through hands-on learning and molten inspiration.

Growing up on a Midwestern dairy and hog farm meant there was always something to fix - or invent. Those early years taught him to see both beauty and utility in every scrap of metal. A tractor seat might become the face of a gargoyle; a fuel tank, the body of a life-sized elephant; a garbage chute, a bulldog mid-snarl.

College opened the door to sculpture, and with it, a new way of thinking. Kelly discovered that while he couldn’t draw or throw a pot, he could build. And building, it turns out, is its own form of art. Decades in the prop industry and countless creative collaborations later, he’s gathered an ever-expanding library of skills that he now loves sharing with others.

Kelly’s mission is simple:
To help people connect with the transformative experience of working with metal, whether through foundry, blacksmithing, welding, or all three. If you’ve ever felt the call of fire and form, you’re in the right place.

Curious where to begin? Use the human-powered chat widget in the lower right corner of your screen to start a conversation about upcoming workshops or custom learning experiences. Whether you’re ready to pick up a torch for the first time or refine your pour technique, Kelly’s always happy to help you find the right fit. Just don’t be surprised if he’s mid-weld when you message. He’ll get back to you as soon as the sparks settle.