Build a Wooden Longbow (Ages 16+) June 21-23, 2024

This course takes students through the step-by-step process of crafting a wooden longbow. To facilitate learning about constructing a traditional bow, students will start with a rough-cut stave of hickory which is already in the shape of a bow. Students will be making their own bow strings and so learn the process of weaving a flemish twist bow string out of dacron. Students will also be backing their bows with linen and learn how to do this important process.

Throughout the course, participants learn the basics of working wood with a drawknife, specialized rasps, a cabinet scraper and other traditional woodworking hand tools. In addition to making a bow and string, students will also learn how to build arrows; they will build at least one primitive arrow made out of bamboo. Class discussion includes design theory, different bow shapes, woods used to make bows and the art of tillering a bow (getting it to bend correctly).

If time permits, students will be able to practice shooting their bows and learn basic shooting techniques. Participants can expect to leave with an unfinished bow that shoots. Draw weights will vary as the goal is to learn to build a basic wooden longbow. We will not be applying any finish or bow handle grip material so students will need to complete this after the class on their own time frame. We will discuss the process of finishing a bow.

*This class runs over three days:
Friday, June 21 from 5-9 p.m.
Saturday, June 22 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sunday, June 23 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: $300
Materials Fee: $250
Total Cost: $550

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.