Matchless Firestarting (FREE!)

Early or pre-humans have been controlling fire for as long as 1.7 million years – before humanity evolved, beginning 300,000 years ago. Fire is a result of impact, compression, solar energy or friction. Ancient fire-making methods include the hand drill, bow drill, pump drill, fire plow, fire saw, fire thong, and sparks caught from striking rocks. Bow drills have been used by humans around the world for thousands of years.

Learn how to make and practice using a complete matchless-firestarting bow drill kit - bow, spindle, handhold, and fireboard - using a variety of locally-sourced materials and a piece of cordage. $35 includes all required tools, materials, tuition, and a cup of tea. Everyone will make a bow drill kit to take home.

Space in this class is limited to 6 participants. Preregistration, along with a paid deposit, is required to reserve a spot in the class. Deposits may be fully refunded in the event of a cancellation a week or more before the class, if the space is filled. Refunds for last-minute cancellations are unfortunately not available. Please plan accordingly. Contact Rewild Maine at (207) 449-7738 or rewildmaine@gmail.com if you have any questions.

NOTE: This class will be held entirely outdoors. Please dress appropriately. There will be a fire for warmth. Due to the ongoing international COVID-19 pandemic, preventative measures will be enforced. Please wear a mask or a cloth covering over your face, maintain physical distancing throughout the class, and do not attend if you are feeling unwell. 

Rewild Maine is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization. We depend on donations from the community to offer free classes and workshops and we are grateful for your support. Scholarships are available for paid classes on an as-needed basis and nobody will ever be turned away for lack of funds. All donations are tax-deductible.