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 fire setups: the teepee and shed, all using natural materials. Once we cover this step, we will discuss the science of friction fire, such as the why and how it works. Then we will 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. We will discuss coal extenders and if time permits, go for a walk and ID some of the trees/plants used in the workshop. We'll demonstrate and discuss some of the modern methods of starting fires and their pros and cons, (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.
The next workshop will be spring 2022. 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 Fluvanna county, Va. Directions 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.