This one-day workshop will teach you independence from matches and lighters! Friction firemaking was the way of our ancestors, and we can reclaim an incredibly sacred connection to the element of fire by relearning this ancient skill. In this class you'll make your own bow drill set and get plenty of coaching on proper technique for easier firemaking. Topics covered: harvesting materials in the woods, which local tree species are best for bow drill sets, harvesting and preparing tinder nests, knife skills for carving and splitting, bowing technique, and how to turn your friction ember into a flame!

The class is taught by Mary Murphy, who has spent many winter months cooking all her food over bow drill fires. She knows the tricks that can allow anyone to have success with this ancient skill. Preparation and technique are far more important than strength. Please bring a bag lunch, a pair of work gloves, and a sharp knife if you have one. This workshop is open to all genders. The cost is $60. The class will be held at Good Heart Farm in Worcester. Register at www.mountainsongexpeditions.com, and share the Facebook Event with your friends at:
https://www.facebook.com/events/804112906265716/

Here is a testimonial from the last bow drill class we offered:
"Mountainsong’s bowdrill fire-making class far more than a recipe, it is an event to experience. Mary is an outstanding expert at starting fire with primitive methods. She effectively communicates her understanding of materials and methods with calm assurance. She clearly places the use of the method in proper practical perspective while being totally committed to providing her students with understanding and success. Participants are guided, not pressured, as they make tools and learn technique through their own actions. Tuning and adjustment suggestions are given at points in the lesson that assure the student will appreciate and use the advice. The class goes beyond a tutorial. It is a real life-lesson providing activity and thoughts for you to process long after the class ends. I recommend this class without reservation." ~S. F. Clark, Worcester, VT

Blessings of Sun, Wind, Rain, and Stone,
Mary Murphy
Lead Guide at Mountainsong Expeditions
www.mountainsongexpeditions.com
802-223-8600

Jan 25, 2025, 10 AM to 12 PM

Jan 25, 2025, 3 to 4:15 PM

Jan 26, 2025, 7 to 9 PM