Students will forge a two-hasp chest lock inspired by the Mästermyr tool chest, unearthed in a farm field in Gotland, Sweden. In this type of lock, the key passes over the defensive wards and raises both parts of a split spring to release the bolt from the staples on the lid’s hasps. Students will discuss interpretations of the original lock’s remnants and variations found in other locks of the period. Students may modify the design within the limits of the materials provided, with an emphasis on period-appropriate technology. By forging steel as though it were wrought iron, students will work closer to original practices and produce convincing replicas. Anyone who wishes to try salvaged wrought iron is encouraged to bring some.

Students will lay out the lock parts on a hammered steel plate, leaving the center thicker for mortises and the edges thinner for punched holes. Punching holes and mortises will be demonstrated, though students may use modern drills to save time. They will form the bow of the key by doubling the material back on itself and forge-welding the ends. Working in pairs, students will learn to double-strike with a sledgehammer to draw out the spring steel and the lock’s long bolt, which has a wide, flat center section. Only the most experienced students are likely to finish the lock in five days. Those who want more time may sign up for the Gothic Key class the following weekend and continue working on it.