These projects: the Mini Penobscot and Mini Canoe are constructed with birch bark similar to those made years ago by New England Algonquian and Penobscot Natives. Much smaller in size and to be respectful some changes have been made. Needle skills are helpful as these are stitched with waxed linen and embellished with pine needles.
Instructor Matthew Parkinson was the first winner of History Channel’s Forged in Fire. You will forge and finish one antler-handled hunting knife with a 4-inch to 6-inch blade. Topics will include working with high-carbon steel, knife design, forging a blade to shape, grinding, finishing, heat treating, fitting a guard, and attaching a handle. This is an introductory class, but some experience is helpful. Students will also cut out, mold, stitch, dye and finish a leather sheath.
