Per Friden is a bowyer based in Sweden who has been carving bows for nearly ten years. He is also a forest manager tending to 3000 hectares of Swedish public land, and feels fortunate to spend so much of his time among trees. Per and his bows can be found on Instagram @nordic_selfbows.
Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Per Friden.
Episode Links:
https://www.instagram.com/nordic_selfbows/
Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions
Summary:
In this conversation, Todd and Per explore the journey of bow building, discussing its therapeutic nature, the learning process, and the community surrounding the craft. Per shares his experiences as a self-taught bowyer, the materials he uses, and the joy he finds in crafting bows. They also touch on the importance of archery in Per's life, his teaching experiences, and the connection between nature and craftsmanship. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of pursuing a passion for bow making.
Show Notes:
Per started bow building as a therapeutic outlet during a tough time in his life.
Bow building combines Per's love for the outdoors and working with his hands.
He learned bow making primarily through YouTube tutorials and trial and error.
Per enjoys sharing his knowledge with others through teaching bow building classes.
He prefers to carve bows for himself rather than taking commissions.
The community of bow makers in Sweden is small but supportive.
Per finds joy in the variety of materials available for bow making.
He emphasizes the importance of focus and presence while crafting bows.
Per's work as a forest manager informs his understanding of wood selection for bow making.
The connection to nature is a significant aspect of Per's bow building experience.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Bow Building Journey
02:45 The Therapeutic Nature of Crafting Bows
05:37 Self-Taught Skills and Community Connections
08:30 Materials and Techniques in Bow Making
11:24 The Personal Connection to Archery
14:17 Teaching Bow Building to Others
16:55 Challenges and Learning in Bow Crafting
19:41 Tools and Techniques in Bow Making
22:43 Exploring Unique Woods and Materials
25:48 The Therapeutic Benefits of Crafting
28:09 Journey into Carpentry and Home Renovation
28:42 A Career in Forestry Management
30:59 Daily Life in Forestry
32:45 Public Access and Wildlife Encounters
34:48 Family Life and Outdoor Activities
36:26 Seasonal Changes and Outdoor Pursuits
37:59 Life in Gothenburg and Travel Plans
39:56 Innovations in Bow Making
43:20 Social Media and Craftsmanship
49:24 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Workshops