I want to learn flintknapping

[eddieb]

So as the title says I would like to learn how to flintknap, I literally know nothing about it. So can anyone give me and other beginners a push in the right direction, tips,the process,book now vids and even what equipment I/we would need?
All help appreciated

 

[Mesquite]

Best advice would be to spend a day with someone like Will Lord ​You'll learn a lot more in that time than you would watching any videos etc

 

[Everything Mac]

I agree with Mesquite. You'd get a good grounding in it if you get on a course for a day or two. I've dabbled once or twice and it is much harder than it looks.

There's numerous videos on youtube though so spend a bit of time watching those and I'm sure you'd pick up the basics.

I don't know the geology of Essex but you find Flint in nodules in chalk.

As for tools - well you can go modern or stone age. Ie use copper hammers and points or antler hammers and points. I know they can be purchased online but I can't think where just now.

By far the best advice I can give is to wear safety glasses. Flint shards are super sharp, and they would do real damage if you got a piece in your eye. Gloves would be a good idea too.

All the best
Andy

 

[atlatlman]

So as the title says I would like to learn how to flintknap, I literally know nothing about it. So can anyone give me and other beginners a push in the right direction, tips,the process,book now vids and even what equipment I/we would need?
All help appreciated

Your not the only one that would like to learn flint knapping. The trouble for me is I'm getting a bit long in the tooth to start learning a new skill. Good luck with your new adventure.

 

[Mafro]

never to old mate, and being in Ipswich Will Lord is just down the road from you in Bury St Edmunds. I cannot recommend him highly enough, having travelled from Kent to his place for lessons in the past. Do it....

 

[atlatlman]

never to old mate, and being in Ipswich Will Lord is just down the road from you in Bury St Edmunds. I cannot recommend him highly enough, having travelled from Kent to his place for lessons in the past. Do it....

I don't think my joints could take all that knapping. I had to take a pain killer the other day when using my Atlatl.

 

[eddieb]

Thanks for the replies guess I'm gonna have to get the girlfriend to treat me

 

[British Red]

I don't think my joints could take all that knapping. I had to take a pain killer the other day when using my Atlatl.

Its not hard on the joints - or at least I didn't find it so. Me and the wife spent a day with John Lord who really is "the daddy" of flint knapping - he's in Kings Lynn - absolutely awesome day - can't recommend him highly enough

http://www.flintknapping.co.uk/where.html

 

[atlatlman]

Its not hard on the joints - or at least I didn't find it so. Me and the wife spent a day with John Lord who really is "the daddy" of flint knapping - he's in Kings Lynn - absolutely awesome day - can't recommend him highly enough

http://www.flintknapping.co.uk/where.html

Thanks for the link. Not a bad price for a whole day.

 

[British Red]

Same price however many of you go. My wife and I shared a day - John even took us to the pub and Val made us fantastic scones. How many times do you get to spend a day with the worlds leading expert and have one to one tuition for that price?

 

[atlatlman]

Same price however many of you go. My wife and I shared a day - John even took us to the pub and Val made us fantastic scones. How many times do you get to spend a day with the worlds leading expert and have one to one tuition for that price?

You have sparked something in me to give it a go. Do you get to keep the things you have made?

 

[British Red]

Oh yes - even the stuff John makes for you!

Axe Head by British Red, on Flickr

 

[atlatlman]

Oh yes - even the stuff John makes for you!

Axe Head by British Red, on Flickr

Seriously? I was watching youtube vids of John and Will Lord till two this morning. When I told my partner she said, oh no here we go again another project.

 

[British Red]

Uhuh. John and Val were fab. I explained to John that I am an axe lover and he quickly knapped me that axe head - I still have it

You should see the size of the nodule it came from

JL large flint by British Red, on Flickr

I may go see him again just to hang out - the man is a legend - you wont forget that day I promise

 

[atlatlman]

I would love a small spear point for one of my atlatl darts. I just hope he's not fully booked in the summer.

 

[Mafro]

Both John and Will run course pretty much when you want one mate. Both are complete legends

 

[atlatlman]

Both John and Will run course pretty much when you want one mate. Both are complete legends

Will I have to grow my hair long and don animal skins? Please say yes.

 

[British Red]

In my opinion (as I told him ) Johns beard is both too short and too neat. It is de rigeur to out scruff him!