Outdoor Skills
Bows and Arrows: Crafting the Traditional Long Bow & Arrow Making
Course Overview
This course takes students through the step-by-step process of crafting a wooden longbow, wooden-shafted arrow, and bow string. To facilitate learning about constructing a traditional bow, students start with a rough-cut stave of hickory. Bows are backed with flax-fiber linen.Each arrow includes a field point and feathers. String is made using the traditional Flemish twist technique. Throughout the course participants learn the basics of working wood with a drawknife, carpenter’s scraper, and other traditional hand tools. Class discussion includes design theory, different bow shapes, and the art of tillering a bow (getting it to bend correctly). As time and weather permit, students will practice shooting techniques on campus.
Dates
This course has been cancelled to mitigate the risk of spreading COVID-19. We offer our deepest apologies. We truly believe in the power of craft to build community, and we know that community is needed more than ever in times like these. However, the need to stay healthy and protect our friends and neighbors is the most critical priority.
If you were registered for this class, you should have received an email regarding your refund options. If not, please call us at 218-387-9762 or email us at info@northhouse.org.
Click here for additional information.
We truly hope to see you in another class at North House soon!
Course Details
Required
You will need the following tools for this class:
- 12' tape measure
- pencils
- sharp knife
- cloth gardening gloves
- clothes that can get dirty
Optional Tools
- carpenter's scapers
- drawknife
More Information
Once registered, students will receive a confirmation email with further class information. Please call us if you haven't received it within 24 hours.