Friction Fire ⌖
Make Fire From Nothing
The Friction Fire Workshop teaches you to create fire using nothing but raw materials, skill, and patience. You’ll learn to master ancient techniques like the Bow Drill, Hand Drill, Fire Plough, and Pump Drill—each with its own rhythm, method, and challenge.
Through hands-on practice and guided technique, you’ll gain more than just fire—you’ll build the mindset, focus, and resilience that come with doing it the traditional way. No lighters. No shortcuts. Just wood, grit, and flame.
Workshop Overview
This full-day course takes place in a forested outdoor setting where we’ll start with fire-making theory, tool construction, and material selection. Then it’s all hands-on—crafting kits, troubleshooting technique, and learning the body mechanics that make friction fire possible.
Each participant will work through multiple methods, rotating between skill stations and working one-on-one with instructors. By the end of the day, you’ll not only understand how fire is made—you’ll feel it in your hands.
$89.99
Includes instruction + all group materials
Detailed pre-trip gear + packing list
Access to post-workshop field notes
What You’ll Learn
This workshop covers the full friction fire process—from choosing the right materials in the wild to carving, building, and practicing with each fire-starting method. You’ll develop a deep understanding of form, pressure, and technique as you work through the Bow Drill, Hand Drill, Pump Drill, and Fire Plough.
You’ll leave with practical knowledge, sore arms, and a spark of confidence that only comes from coaxing flame from wood.
Multi-Method Instruction
Try your hand at four classic friction fire techniques—learn their strengths, uses, and how to build each one from scratch.
Refine Your Technique
Get personalized coaching to improve your form, avoid burnout, and troubleshoot your technique on the fly.
Ancient Skills, Modern Focus
This workshop bridges ancestral wisdom and real-world utility—fire by friction, adapted to today’s wild.
Learn Bow Drill, Hand Drill, Pump Drill & Fire Plough
Build your own friction fire kit in the field
Master pressure, speed, and body mechanics
Train in real forest conditions
One-on-one support from skilled instructors
No experience needed—just patience and focus
What to Expect
This is a full-day, outdoor skills course in a backcountry setting. You’ll be carving, crafting, kneeling in the dirt, and working up a sweat as you learn friction fire the hard (and rewarding) way. We’ll rotate through stations, build kits together, and spend plenty of time practicing each method.
Expect sparks, smoke, frustration—and eventually, fire. Bring your focus and a willingness to fail forward.
Friction Fire Workshop FAQ
Got questions before you spark your first flame? Here’s what most folks ask before joining the Friction Fire Workshop.
Do I need any experience to attend?
Nope! This workshop is beginner-friendly. You’ll get step-by-step instruction and support for every fire method, no matter your experience level.
What should I bring?
You’ll receive a gear list upon registration. Bring outdoor clothing, lunch, water, gloves, and any carving tools you’d like to use. We provide all key materials and practice kits.
How long is the workshop?
It runs a full day—usually 6–8 hours including time for instruction, carving, rotating between stations, and group debriefing.
Will I be making my own fire kit?
Yes. You’ll work with instructors to build and use your own Bow Drill and Hand Drill kits, with optional access to try Pump Drill and Fire Plough setups.
Is friction fire really that hard?
It’s challenging, but that’s what makes it so rewarding. You’ll get plenty of support, coaching, and practice time to help you succeed.
Does the workshop run in bad weather?
Yes, unless conditions are dangerous. Fire doesn’t wait for sunshine, and learning in the elements is part of the real-world challenge. Dress for the weather and be ready to adapt.
