This course will take 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 will 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 will learn the basics of working wood with a drawknife, carpenter’s scraper, and other traditional hand tools. Class discussion will include 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.

The materials fee includes stave, string, utilization of specialized tools, arrow point/feathers, and pre-course preparation. String is made using 16 strands of B-50 Dacron. Coaching on basic intuitive shooting techniques will be included. Applications of finish and grip materials will be covered in class, allowing the students to focus on the finishing aspect at their leisure. Previous woodworking experience is helpful.