You're without a lighter/matches in an urban or wilderness survival situation, could you start a fire ? Fire is heat, light, comfort, safety, used for cooking, purifying water and making tools. This workshop will cover all aspects of friction fire.
Friction fire is said to be easy to do but very hard to learn. I promise that you will let out a wild man/wild woman yell when you blow your first tinder bundle into a flame, that was started from a coal, by your handmade bow and drill setup. It is an amazing feeling !! I have literally started thousands of friction fires and I never tire of this magic.
The Advanced Friction Fire Workshop will start with a brief overview of several fire setups: the teepee, log cabin and shed, all using natural materials. We'll cover the local, natural materials that work best for all aspects of bow drill, pump drill and hand drill applications. This covers the bow, spindle, handhold, fire board, tinder bundle, and cordage. I also want you to be somewhat proficient in making your own cordage for the bow string. We will discuss coal extenders and if time permits, go for a walk and ID some of the trees/plants used in the workshop. The pros and cons of modern fire starting methods will be discussed, (steel wool-ferro rod-magnifying glass,etc). You will make your own bow drill setup in class and all materials will be provided. There will be plenty of time for hands-on practice and trouble-shooting. When you get home and have trouble, you have my email for any help once the workshop is over and you will receive handouts for all material that is covered in class.
The next scheduled workshop is July 15, 2023 from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm. I can also schedule a class at your location with a minimum of 4 people. Please dress appropriately, bring food and water. and be prepared to get fired up! Complete bow drill and pump drill setups will also be available for purchase at class. The workshop will be held in Palmyra, Va.22963. Directions will follow as class time nears. This workshop can also be held at a location/date of your choice with a minimum of 4 attendees.
Class size is limited to 12 students and the cost is $60 per student.