SATURDAY, MAY 20, 2023, 9:00AM - 5:00PM
AND
SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2023, 9:00AM - 5:00PM
INSTRUCTOR:
BRENTON SPRATLEN
LOCATION:
BEAUTIFUL LAND A FEW MILES BEYOND TREESONG ON THE WASHOUGAL RIVER ROAD
In this 2-day workshop, we will dive deep into the hearth of friction fire, creating our own kits from elements in the landscape, and discovering new ways to improve our success with the bow and drill methods. We will practice hand drill techniques and learn about the many other methods associated with friction fire ignition. We will spend much of our time practicing, crafting, and modifying our kits. There will be a fair amount of knife work and knot tying that will be taught as well. Come learn how to be self-sufficient in fire making!
What to bring:
- Bring your own seat unless you are okay with sitting in the grass, dirt or on potentially wet tree stumps. Old yoga mats or sleeping pads can be cut to size. Wool blankets and cutting boards can even be used. Insulation from the ground can make a big difference in comfort while in an outdoor classroom environment.
- Rain layer — jacket and pants (wet tree stumps!)
- Proper footwear — tennis shoes are fine in ideal conditions, but each participant should have decent water-resistant hiking shoes/boots. We don't anticipate a lot of travel so rain boots may suffice if comfortable while standing in them for long periods or short walks.
- Change of clothes and extra in case of emergency. Best to have multiple thin layers than one thin and one heavy layer. There will be physical activities which may require shedding some layers. Bring whatever you need to feel comfortable. Space for gear is not an issue.
- Bring your own food. It is best if food is quickly prepared by fire or microwave, or freeze-dried meals that you can just add hot water to may be easiest, but somewhat expensive if bought from stores. There will be a small amount of time allotted for food prep with 30 min meal breaks but you can finish your meal during class times. Pre-made burritos re-heated by fire are good options. Plenty of snacks are highly recommended. No refrigeration available.
- Personal hygiene needs. Please keep in mind other people's sensitivities with overly fragrant/synthetic products. Fragrances can also attract biters.
- Prescription eyewear if needed.
- Any personal medications needed for the duration of the class.
- Water bottle.
- Headlamp or flashlight.
- Cell phone charger or battery back-up. Service is limited on the property.
- Facemasks when/if needed.
Optional:
- Hat or head covering optional, but useful.
- Favorite knife if available, preferably non-serrated, and at least 4 inches long. Knives will also be available as loaners for projects.
- Any additional cold weather gear needed (gloves, seat cushion, etc.).
- Sunglasses if needed.
- Work gloves (preferably leather) to protect hands.
- Notepad and pencil if taking notes, recommended for keeping track of all the information provided for future reference.
A list of any potential relevant allergies from each applicant would be appreciated by the instructor. These can include food allergies, latex, insect stings, sun, known plant allergy(pollen, grass, nightshades), etc. If not required in application, I may inquire during program as needed.
Age restricted to 18 years and over.
Please no alcohol/drug use during the program or on site.
TUITION: $200 (PLUS PROCESSING FEES)