Covell Creative Metal Working - Freedom, California

Christian Neff

TLDR Review

What I found was far beyond learning the basics of metalworking tools. Ron Covell is a class act and an absolute master of his trades; Metalworking and Teaching. You will not be disappointed if you spend any time with Ron whether you're a beginner or an experienced fabricator. He's a gentleman, a metalworking artist, and a profoundly gifted teacher.

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Full Review

Going in I wasn't sure what to expect or what I'd learn at Ron's class. I knew I wanted to get my hands on specialty tools and that he could teach me how to use them... but I didn't have much of a goal beyond that for the class. I even told him that when he called and asked what my goals were.

On top of that, I didn't know much about Ron... I had found his videos on YouTube and watched a good amount of them... seen the This Old Tony collaboration series (really great if you haven't seen it!), but that's about it. I had a general idea that he was definitely a somebody... but simply put... I had no idea he's an absolute legend.

He truly is one of those guys you occasionally run into, a true grandmaster of his trades, yet he's humble and willing to pass his skills and passion onto another. His approach to problem-solving is amazing to witness and his pursuit of perfection is flat out awe-inspiring.

It wasn't until I watched him work a piece of sheet metal, then tried to do the same myself, did I begin to understand his skill level. And that's what's humbling... because he does something incredible in no time at all... but then he breaks it down for you so you understand what's going on.

I'd like to point out that his outreach has been quite extensive over the years... teaching many classes all over the world... and building a large library of instructional videos. He also has done quite a bit of writing in magazines. You would be smart to spend some time and look up some of his work; both instructional stuff he's put out and his metalworking projects (look up the California Star).

Anyway, before this gets too much longer... If you think you might take a class with him you will not be disappointed. Even if you don't take up metalworking, seeing him work at his passion will make you better at whatever you end up pursuing... He's just that good.

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Side note... His wife showed up for lunch both days I was there. She's an absolute class act herself and her banana bread is the best I've ever had!
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jon lambert

joel lewis