Bowmaking Introduction

In this course, run over one evening and a day, you will learn the fundamentals of crafting a bow from a single piece of wood, known as a selfbow. You will learn the theory, science and art of turning inert, milled timber into lively and unique flatbows. You will also learn how to make a simple Flemish Twist string, and make an armguard custom fit to your arm. At the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to shoot your new bow.

The skills learnt on this course will enable students to make their own bows at home. While students may not have the equipment in our workshop, students will learn how to achieve the same results with minimal equipment.

Please note students are welcome to craft a bow of any draw weight up to the limit of 50 lb draw force.

Students on this course do not need any previous experience in wood working or in archery. This course is designed for beginners to both disciplines. However, woodworkers and archers of all skill levels are invited as there’s always something new to learn.

This course runs over an evening, from 6 pm to 8.30 pm, and a full day, from 8 am to 4 pm.

In the first session, students get a workshop tour and overview of the general theory of bow design. Students then lay out and cut out a bow blank from a board of sustainably grown North American hardwood.

The next morning begins with students learning the art and science of tillering – the process of incrementally testing and observing the bending bow – to bring their bows ‘full arc’, to their desired draw weight and draw length. Students will also mould a leather armguard to the shape of their arm for maximum protection and comfort.

Once the bows are tillered, it’s time to sand, scrape and wax the bows so that they look as good as they shoot.

Having crafted a beautiful, accurate bow, students will learn how to make a simple version of the Flemish Twist bowstring, a model that has served archers for hundreds, if not thousands of years.

The course is designed to give students the knowledge and confidence they need to shoot their new bows, and to continue their journey of bowmaking away from the class environment.

Cost includes: Tuition, insurance, materials, use of tools, workshop consumables, safety gear.
Need to bring: Lunch, appropriate clothing and covered footwear
Booking in advance is essential

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