2.3 million years ago, two of our human ancestors sat in a cave in eastern Africa and flint knapped stone by firelight. Their flakes of stone fell off into the fire and left evidence for us of some of the earliest known flint knapping in the world. Since then, humans relied on flint and other high-siliica content rocks for their survival. So much so that we don’t have the physical ability to cut and tear into plants and animals without tools! Our bodies are built upon this rich history of lithics and there is physical and emotional “medicine” in learning the art of flint knapping
Flint knapping is one of the hardest skills to learn. There are so many layers, dimensions, and factors that come into intentionally breaking and carving stone. I have learned from so many amazing teachers and I wouldn’t recommend learning this skills without mentors of your own!
For this three day class we will be learning the basics of flint knapping and will be practicing making stone tools (drills, blades, flakes, scrapers, and arrowheads). Students will walk away with their own flint knapping kit, as well as more stone to practice at home.
Class starts: Friday July 5th at 9:30 am
Class ends: Sunday July 7th at 2pm
Ticket Cost: $600
Ages 14 and up welcome
Other topics will include:
The history of ancient humans and flint knapping
Finding and gathering stone
The fundamentals of flint knapping
Using tools for skinning and butchering
Making your own flint knapping kit from the landscape
Location & Camping: Students will be camping on a beautiful 20 acre homestead, about 30 minutes outside of Asheville, NC. Students are required to bring their own camping gear and should be prepared for all weather. We strongly encourage all students to camp on-site overnight.
Food: Students will be required to bring their own food for the class. An outdoor kitchen and refrigeration will be provided for students to use on site.
What to bring:
personal camping gear (tent, sleeping bag and pad, hammock etc)
Personal hygiene gear
Rain gear
Personal eating gear (cup, utensils, plate etc)
A knife and saw
Any personal flint knapping gear you may have
Water bottle
What not to bring: Please leave your firearms, alcohol, drugs, and dogs at home.
Feeling hesitant? Got some questions? Feel free to email Luke: HolisticSurvivalSchool@gmail.com