Exploring the History, Archaeology, and Construction of Throwing Sticks with Michael Frank

08/14/20 • 81 min

#022. In this episode we delve into throwing sticks (rabbit sticks, boomerangs, whatever you wish to call them) and how to make and use them. Michael is also an archaeologist by education so we discuss some of the historical and archaeological examples from around the world.
Throwing sticks are perhaps one of our earliest hunting tools and it is always fascinating to learn how to create something like this that was a very natural weapon common to a large percentage of the world. From a functional standpoint, I love learning how to craft a weapon from something so elemental as a stick, from a scientific view I enjoy learning about the physics involved and how complex they really can be, and from an artistic viewpoint I appreciate their simple beauty. Hope you try making one!
Resources mentioned in the episode can be found over at:
folkcraftrevival.com/22

Previous Episode

A Beginners Guide to Scrimshaw with Rich Williams

#021. -- In this episode we talk through the principles of scrimshaw and how it is done, from prepping your work piece to tools needed, techniques used, legality issues, and so much more. We also discuss the history of scrimshaw as a nautical art and how it has progressed through history to the present day. If you're curious about trying scrimshaw, or simply like to learn about the common crafts and arts of our past, this episode is for you!
Links to resources mentioned can be found at:
folkcraftrevival.com/21

Next Episode

An Overview of Flintknapping with Mike Cook

#023. This week we're talking flintknapping-- learning about making and using stone arrowheads and knives. We discuss the knapping from a high level perspective, with a little bit of how-to and the principles involved, a bit of considerations for using your stone blades and tips, things to keep in mind when getting started, etc. I consider flintknapping to be a foundational skill, almost all other technologies are based around having a blade in order to cut with, and I thoroughly enjoyed chatting with someone who is good at it.
Mike is a professional flintknapper who has been knapping for about 40 years, and he makes some gorgeous work (check it out at artofishi.com). We had a great conversation, and I think you'll enjoy it! Big thanks to Rich Williams, the guest from episode #21, for recommending I chat with Mike!
Links to any resources mentioned can be found at:
folkcraftrevival.com/23