Build a Wooden Longbow – August 8-10, 2025

This course takes students through the step-by-step process of crafting a wooden longbow, bamboo-shafted arrow, and bow string. To facilitate learning about constructing a traditional bow, students 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 learn the basics of working wood with a drawknife, carpenter’s scraper, and other traditional woodworking hand tools. Class discussion includes 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.

Materials fee includes stave, string, utilization of specialized tools, arrow point/feathers, and pre-course preparation. String is made using 16 strands of BCY 55 Dacron. Coaching on basic instinctive 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 helpful.

*This class runs over three days:
Friday, August 8 from 5-9 p.m.
Saturday, August 9 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sunday, August 10 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Your instructor will provide the following materials:

• bow stave
• string-making material
• use of specialized tools and bow stringer

Students are asked to bring:

• Light work gloves (not the super thick leather heavy ones)
• As your class is scheduled over a lunch hour, we highly recommend you bring a lunch or click here to learn about local eating opportunities.

Skill Level
Students do not need basic skills to work with wood as these will be taught and demonstrated during the class. Students will need average hand arm and shoulder strength.

Age Requirement
Students ages 16 and older are welcome to attend this class. Ages 16-17 can register with parent permission via an email to info@marinemillsfolkschool.org. 

Location Details
Marine Mills Folk School
550 Pine St., Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047

Cost Details
Tuition: $375
Materials Fee: $260
Total Cost: $635

NOTE: Be aware we may cancel class if a minimum number of registrations is not reached. We work to balance teachers’ need to plan for a class with students’ busy schedules — not an easy task. Please register as early as possible!

If interested, please click here to review our cancellation policies.