An introduction to flint knapping

Description

One of the most ancient craft skills, flint knapping has been important for almost all of human existence. Flint knapping involves the controlled flaking of flint to produce tools and weapons, therefore common sense means taking precautions. We will provide safety gloves, eye shield, and leg pads along with other safety precautions. We will provide facilities like toilet, hand-wash, etc and also water / tea / coffee. Please bring your own lunch / snacks. These workshops are strictly 21+ and for those with a sensible and practical disposition. We will guide you but close attention to instructions and cautions will be necessary. Even with care and safety equipment it is possible that small cuts may occur, and some knapping may result in bruises! Therefore, anyone with ANY kind of blood disorder must NOT attend, sorry. Normally the day will consist of: • Intro and background info / history • Safety introduction & explanation of the process • Familiarisation of the equipment • A look at some common flint tools and their uses • Demonstrations of key techniques This all usually takes until lunch time. After lunch we continue with: • Flint selection • First techniques; I will work with you to help you understand the process • Making tools • Finishing work Each attendee will be supplied with a quantity of flint for the day. Everything you make during the day is then yours to take home. We will provide safety gloves, eye shield, and leg pads along with other safety precautions. Please ensure you wear: • Solid, closed toe boots like walking boots – no wellies or trainers! • Full length trousers – jeans are ideal. • Long sleeved jumper and coat, preferably no artificial materials. • No scarves or other dangly or loose clothing. • Wear glasses if you normally do – you need to see what you are doing. Contacts must not be worn. • Dress for most of the day spent outdoors with layers if needed. • Not your best of anything as you may get dirty! We will provide facilities like toilet, hand-wash, etc and also water / tea / coffee. Please bring your own lunch / snacks.

What's included in the price?

Materials and PPE

Cancellation policy

Strict - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 8 weeks before the course starts

Maker

Jonny Crafts Things

with Craft Courses since 2022

Message the tutor

Jonny Cope is a multi-media craftsman. He works across a range of crafts: blacksmithing, bladesmithing, bronze casting, silver smithing, wood work, leather craft, flint knapping, bushcraft skills and more. His key interest is the crafting of historical replicas and the continuation of a number of primitive skills. He is also a musician and offers workshops in a range of instruments and techniques.