.....Angi chose to attempt a Bamboo backed Yew long bow with snake skin. I went for a Bamboo backed Osage, in the Recurve/Decurve long bow configuration. We could have chosen any number of woods and styles that Curt had available but we wanted to challenge ourselves.

Curt walked us through the tools, the techniques and theories behind the process and we were able to examine quite a few of his finished bows to help underscore the specifics he was teaching us. At this point I knew we were in good hands.

His shop is laid out in a class room like setting and we each had a station to work from. The rough staves soon began to transform in shape as we applied, under Curt’s very helpful supervision, the tools and techniques that he was showing us. He really made you comfortable quickly and our confidence grew as we saw what our own hands were creating come to life. This was at once, hard work and calming meditation. We were all so focused but all so relaxed and immersed, it was amazing. I think this is all due to Curt’s great ability to communicate. There is no magic to this process, just simply applied proven techniques. I’d have to say that really, anyone can do this.

Angi’s and my bows turned out beautifully. We could not be more pleased. Also, they shoot very, very well. For the price of a bow you could just purchase, we got to experience the satisfaction and rewards of crafting our own. It truly is an addicting experience and both Angi and I have signed up to do it again.

Bows . . . you can’t make just one. Who knew?