Description
Workshop Details
Whether you’re looking to start your bowyer journey and catapult your understanding of archery even further or you’re eager to learn how to craft your own shield so it can finally work just right, this weekend promises to be an experience you’ll never forget – and you’ll take home an epic shield or bow to prove it!
🛡️🏹 This August weekend we’re taking over the Vanguard Centre alongside the awesome Vanguard staff to deliver these two workshops. We will closely guide you through all the main steps in crafting your own battle-ready shield or longbow or flatbow (your choice!)
⚒️ 🛡️SHIELD CRAFTING🛡️ Starting with the raw materials and experienced techniques, you’ll build your shield up to the shape you want, then move on to further refining it. Next, you’ll carve out your handle and shape your boss (the concave metal circle in the centre) if you want one, fix them to your shield, and apply the finishing touches – all in a weekend!✨
You choose the dimensions, we’ll guide you through it. Skirmisher? Make a buckler! Prefer a bit more protection but like to move fast? Heater it is! Or maybe you want the big boys – roundshield or kiteshield! The shields will be made from a base of wood with rawhide and linen available to use if wanted. Any special requests please notify us with at least 3 weeks in advance.
🏹BOWCRAFTING🏹 Over the two days we will take your brand new stave of wood (blank) to a fully tillered and strung longbow/flatbow depending on your choice🏹 Under careful guidance you will be taken through the shaping of the bow using a selection of tools, and demystify the bowyer’s art of tillering your bow to spec. You will also be make your own bowstring using the Flemish Twist, and be able to try out your new bow before taking it home 🌟
The sessions will run from 10am-5pm both days, and our experienced team will be on-hand throughout the evening and early morning for any extra guidance or support. We have a very hands-on approach for our participants’ learning, ensuring you will acquire as much skill as you are able through practice and development🪚
Included in the price is hot tea/coffee and snacks (bring lunch!).
Ages 12+, all under-16s must be accompanied by an adult. Guardians and carers go free unless wanting their own set of materials and lunch.
SCHEDULE
- Saturday 22nd August 2026: Day 1 10am – 5pm, with evening available for supervised crafting.
- Saturday 22nd August 2026: 6pm Workshop social meeting – venue and arrangements TBA
- Sunday 23rd August 2026: Day 2 10am – 5pm – complete and test your creations on site!
Join us for an unforgettable experience!🌟
