Two-Day Longbow Workshop

£280.00
Sold Out


Build your own Bow!


Over two days, you’ll learn the theory of efficient bow design, the principles of material selection, how to mark up a template for a bow specific to your anatomy, how to rough-out the blank, the art of tillering [working the bow to allow it to bend evenly along its length], and how to finish it to perfection.



You’ll also learn the rudiments of cordage allowing you to make a flemish twist string to pair with your bow, meaning you’ll leave with a fully functioning, bespoke bow entirely of your own creation!


Depending on availability, we’ll work with a single piece of machined, square-edged ash, oak or maple, and the bows will be of a ‘board bow’ or ‘American flatbow’ design, just like the ones I make for sale.


No previous archery / bow making experience is required and all are welcome!


Camping is available for those who wish.


Please note that because of the time involved in fletching, we will not be making arrows on this course. There will, however, be a demonstration of how modern wooden arrows are made, and arrows tuned to your bow will be available to buy at cost [£5 each] on the weekend.


Dates:


Build your own Bow!


Over two days, you’ll learn the theory of efficient bow design, the principles of material selection, how to mark up a template for a bow specific to your anatomy, how to rough-out the blank, the art of tillering [working the bow to allow it to bend evenly along its length], and how to finish it to perfection.



You’ll also learn the rudiments of cordage allowing you to make a flemish twist string to pair with your bow, meaning you’ll leave with a fully functioning, bespoke bow entirely of your own creation!


Depending on availability, we’ll work with a single piece of machined, square-edged ash, oak or maple, and the bows will be of a ‘board bow’ or ‘American flatbow’ design, just like the ones I make for sale.


No previous archery / bow making experience is required and all are welcome!


Camping is available for those who wish.


Please note that because of the time involved in fletching, we will not be making arrows on this course. There will, however, be a demonstration of how modern wooden arrows are made, and arrows tuned to your bow will be available to buy at cost [£5 each] on the weekend.


Key Info


The course is based in Nailsworth, near Stroud, Gloucestershire - about 45 minutes from Bristol - in 5 acres of beautiful open woodland. The exact location and details of how to reach us will be sent via email on booking.

Due to the nature of the site, vehicle access is limited to 4x4s only. Free parking is available in Nailsworth for those without, and collection / shuttle to site can be arranged. Alternatively, it’s a beautiful 20 min walk from town for those who fancy.

Please note: you are coming to a woodland! Do wear/bring suitable clothes and footwear. No open toes in the workshop please (eg. flip-flops / sandles).

We have water, toilets, hand washing facilities, shelter & firewood on site, but little other infrastructure beyond that. This includes power. Please charge any devices you might wish to bring in advance and use sparingly to avoid disappointment.

Camping space the night before and after the course, as well on the night in between, is included in the price. Please bring your own tent, equipment & supplies. Alternatively, there are plenty of hotels / pubs with room / B&B options for those who’d rather.

Tea, coffee & refreshments will be provided (including dairy and non-dairy milk) but please bring your own lunches & snacks (and dinner & breakfast if camping).

The course requires a minimum of 2 people to run and we reserve the right to cancel courses at up to 7 days notice. This is a mechanism for use as a last resort only. You will be refunded in full with sincere apologies if so, OR your booking can be carried forward to the next available course - as you wish.



Bookings are subject to T&Cs and Cancellation Policy