Flintknapping stone tools for everyday uses in stone age life! Learn how to fashion a stone tool using wood, antler and other lythics. Stone tools have been used throughout history by our ancestors. In this class we will be making a point that you can use on an atlatl dart or arrow or use as an adornment for the latest stoneage fashion!

This is an ongoing, drop in class that needs your help! Tanning a bison in a week is no easy task and it takes a village to do it! At anytime during the gathering come and help us tan this beautiful beast and learn the process of brain tanning large hides with the dry scrape technique. In 4 days we will tan the entire bison hide and then after the hide has been imbue with all of our hard-work and magic, it will be put up as an item in our 50/50 raffle! Come and lend your energy and let us gather around this project! All are welcome! We need your help! The schedule for the project will look something like this: Day 1: Making the Frame, framing the hide, fleshing the hide (full day) TUESDAY Day 2: Thinning the hide and Dressing #1 (full day) Day 3: Dressing #2 and #3 and softening (full day) Day 4: Smoking the hide (Full day) Bison and other large, now extinct, megafauna used to roam the landscape of North America alongside humans. With stone tools in hand and prayers of gratitude in heart, humans formed deep relation with the Bison that lasted tens of thousands of years. With the few Bison that remain, we can again learn to connect with them by tanning their hides for clothes, blankets, shelter, and hundreds of other uses. Come and remember what it feels like to be in awe of such a large beast.

3 DAY CLASS - BEGINS NOW! 3 day intensive workshop wherein you will create a beautiful hair off buckskin leather the old fashioned way using the brains of the animal to make the leather soft. This method has been used by native americans and stone age peoples all over the world for hundreds of years to create a soft chamois type of leather. You will take home a finished, smoked brain tanned deerskin. We will spend Tuesday scraping the hair and grain from the hide. Wednesday we will brain and soften the hides and Thursday we will sew and smoke them. This is a three day workshop and you will need to be present for the entire class on all three days.

Make strong, beautiful, useful string and rope from natural fibers. All skill levels welcome. We'll learn about sources for fibers, methods of collecting and processing, and techniques for turning fibers into handmade cordage. Instructor's book on cordage, "Fibers of Life" will be available for sale if desired.

Intro to blacksmithing including fire management, tools and hammer control. Ages 12 and up.

We will make a Springtime Tea to support our body during the spring and allergy season. We will use dry herbs to blend the tea and bag it into individual tea bags. Some of the tea will be available for everyone at breakfast during the event. You will also take some tea bags home with you.

Pottery! Pottery! Pottery! Come work with rotted rock. We'll be making bowls, cups, beads, shakers, small oil lamps, figurines - whatever your imagination desires. Pinch pots, coiling, paddling, burnishing - learn the many methods and techniques with master primitive potter Keith. Class is ongoing. Drop in and stay a while. If you want to fire a pot on Saturday, you need to finish it early Friday.

Make a Native American flute out of rivercane or a blowgun - your choice! Class open to ages 8 and up (or younger with a parent or guardian).

Come carve your own spoon! Please bring a sharp knife. All ages welcome. Kids under 10 need to bring a parent.

CONTINUATION FROM MORNING CLASS- NO NEW STUDENTS PLEASE 3 day intensive workshop wherein you will create a beautiful hair off buckskin leather the old fashioned way using the brains of the animal to make the leather soft. This method has been used by native americans and stone age peoples all over the world for hundreds of years to create a soft chamois type of leather. You will take home a finished, smoked brain tanned deerskin. We will spend Tuesday scraping the hair and grain from the hide. Wednesday we will brain and soften the hides and Thursday we will sew and smoke them. This is a three day workshop and you will need to be present for the entire class on all three days.

Variations on tobacco pouch type buckskin leather bags, sewn with artificial sinew - fringed or no, flap or gathered, one or two thong closure - cutting, sewing, pattern hacks. Materials fee depending on size of bag, or bring your own buckskin or commercial buckskin.

Learn to lay out and carve basic Celtic knots on flat boards. Fancy decorative woodworking! Kids younger than 10 need to bring an adult for support.

Kudzu was introduced to the Southeast in 1883 at the New Orleans Exposition, by 1946, it was estimated that 3,000,000 acres of kudzu had been planted to help with erosion. Now, though it is a useful tool, Kudzu has become invasive to the Southeast. Come and learn an old style of basketry on a non-traditional material. Free Form is the finger painting of basket making. Easy and free flowing with room for creative design. Bring a knife if you have one, and a willingness to learn!

In these times, stress is a huge issue. We will discuss how to heal ourselves by using food as medicine (mostly preventative). We will also look at how nervines will help our frayed nerves and how adaptogenic herbs can heal our adrenals. We will discuss which of these grow in this region. We will make and sample some of the remedies we discuss.

Pottery! Pottery! Pottery! Come work with rotted rock. We'll be making bowls, cups, beads, shakers, small oil lamps, figurines - whatever your imagination desires. Pinch pots, coiling, paddling, burnishing - learn the many methods and techniques with master primitive potter Keith. Class is ongoing. Drop in and stay a while. If you want to fire a pot on Saturday, you need to finish it early Friday.

Make a Native American flute out of rivercane or a blowgun - your choice! Open to ages 8 and up (or younger with a parent our guardian).

All cultures used smoke in ritual and medicine. Today there are many hard conversations about the sustainable use of White Sage specifically and other threatened sacred plants used by indigenous peoples in North America. There are plants that people of non-indigenous ancestry can happily use for the purpose that White Sage has come to occupy and also to combat the destruction of sacred plant populations and the continuous disregard for the needs of indigenous peoples and their cultural and religious life. We'll meet a plethora of plants used for their sacred smoke from many countries that grow abundantly around us. Please join me for this complex and important conversation and learning opportunity. A booklet on the plants will be available for purchase in paper or download.

Learn the art of moving on landscapes in the silence of the mind. We will tie together the skills of stalking and quite mind, and practice the various ways you can silence the mind to still the body... Having learned the skill set for how to achieve silence of the mind and heart we will put our skills to the test in stalking games. We will review the basic movements of the fox walk and the stalking step, crawl and slither. Then we will have fun playing against each other. Age 13 and Up

Join Rendezvous founder Darry Wood for the experience of proper tipi setup and for tipi living skills.

The Traditional Self Bow Building workshop engages in the fine art of bow making; learning to carve and shape a single piece of wood into a beautiful and efficient hunting bow. While participating in this four day workshop you will experience the complete process of bow making from start to finish. This is not a survival or quickie bow class. Tools included Material fee for staves $30-$100

Learn to manipulate loose wool roving around a resist to create a seamless felted pouch. An introduction to this primitive textile skill that uses hot water, soap, and “elbow grease” to turn loose fibers into a sturdy, solid fabric. Ages 12+ Limit 8 students $15

This is an ongoing, drop in class that needs your help! Tanning a bison in a week is no easy task and it takes a village to do it! At anytime during the gathering come and help us tan this beautiful beast and learn the process of brain tanning large hides with the dry scrape technique. In 4 days we will tan the entire bison hide and then after the hide has been imbue with all of our hard-work and magic, it will be put up as an item in our 50/50 raffle! Come and lend your energy and let us gather around this project! All are welcome! We need your help! The schedule for the project will look something like this: Day 1: Making the Frame, framing the hide, fleshing the hide (full day) Day 2: Thinning the hide and Dressing #1 (full day) WEDNESDAY Day 3: Dressing #2 and #3 and softening (full day) Day 4: Smoking the hide (Full day) Bison and other large, now extinct, megafauna used to roam the landscape of North America alongside humans. With stone tools in hand and prayers of gratitude in heart, humans formed deep relation with the Bison that lasted tens of thousands of years. With the few Bison that remain, we can again learn to connect with them by tanning their hides for clothes, blankets, shelter, and hundreds of other uses. Come and remember what it feels like to be in awe of such a large beast.

CONTINUATION FROM TUESDAY CLASS - NO NEW STUDENTS PLEASE 3 day intensive workshop wherein you will create a beautiful hair off buckskin leather the old fashioned way using the brains of the animal to make the leather soft. This method has been used by native americans and stone age peoples all over the world for hundreds of years to create a soft chamois type of leather. You will take home a finished, smoked brain tanned deerskin. We will spend Tuesday scraping the hair and grain from the hide. Wednesday we will brain and soften the hides and Thursday we will sew and smoke them. This is a three day workshop and you will need to be present for the entire class on all three days.

Kudzu was introduced to the Southeast in 1883 at the New Orleans Exposition, by 1946, it was estimated that 3,000,000 acres of kudzu had been planted to help with erosion. Now, though it is a useful tool, Kudzu has become invasive to the Southeast. Come and learn an old style of basketry on a non-traditional material. The coiled basket process is comparatively easy as opposed to other more iconic weaving techniques. Bring a knife if you have one, and a willingness to learn!

Considered by many to be the “gateway” class to many other skills opening up possibilities as a tremendous resource for food, tools, hides, and other useful projects. Understanding NOT all animals you come across are created equal. Learn the tips, tricks, and strategies for evaluating expired animals (big and small) making the most out of your acquisition. Learn to develop a discerning eye for which animal will work and which won’t. Most importantly end up with the essentials for creating your own car kit.

Join Earthskills Rendezvous founder Darry Wood for a lively and thorough exploration of fire by friction using the bow drill method.

Forge a striker and assemble a fire making kit including striker, flint and tinder in metal container. Ages 16 and up.

Empowering individuals to be allies and advocates when they experience racism in the community. A class for individuals who have done the developmental work of diversity and privilege and are looking for ways to be the change they want to see in the world.

Learn to prepare and spin wool fleece to create yarn on a drop spindle. Then have the opportunity to spin your wool on different drop spindles and explore a bit of what is possible. Warning: spinning is an addictive past time! But don't worry, drop spindles can be purchased for an additional fee. Class material fee is $5 for fibers.

Learn the ins and outs of making herbal skin salves. You will also learn how to create herbal oil infusions and creating your own recipes with a handy worksheet. If there is time, we will discuss how making a cream is different than making a salve. Everyone will take some salve home.

We will be making medicines with vinegar including Fire Cider, Garlic Elixir and Vitamin Vinegars. You can take home some fire cider decanted from the class last spring!

Beadwork adornment sewn to your material - we'll learn edging, lazy/lane stitch, & applique (one and two needle techniques).

Come learn how to tie a traditional fish net. Great for fishing application, as well as useful for water bottle holders and knotted net bags. $1 materials fee or free if you BYO string...

Pottery! Pottery! Pottery! Come work with rotted rock. We'll be making bowls, cups, beads, shakers, small oil lamps, figurines - whatever your imagination desires. Pinch pots, coiling, paddling, burnishing - learn the many methods and techniques with master primitive potter Keith. Class is ongoing. Drop in and stay a while. If you want to fire a pot on Saturday, you need to finish it early Friday.

Class consists of reducing freshly cut white ash log sections into 'splints' by pounding with billets and sledge hammers to release individual growth rings into full length strips. Participants are required to process their own splints for making their baskets. Further processing requires 'riving' the growth ring strips (dividing them by thickness) into the finished splints using a 'river' (pronounced rYver), a wood device the splints are pulled through. This is an on-going, progressive class where participants may start on different days, produce their splints, and then begin weaving whatever basket they decide to make. Projected production time to make splints ready for weaving: approx. 1 full day. Basket making portion of class could take 1-3 days depending on size and complexity of basket design. Need to bring a sharp knife, some kind of heavy 'pounder' (2 lb sledge, camp hatchet with sheath, or heavy wood billet), chair, clothes pins, and any basketmaking tools you wish.

Make a rivercane blowgun or flute - your choice! Class open to ages 8 and up (or younger with a parent or guardian).

Take the techniques of beadwork we learned and adorn your project - bag, needle holder, pendant, your clothing??

Continuation of morning class

CONTINUATION FROM TUESDAY MORNING CLASS - NO NEW STUDENTS PLEASE 3 day intensive workshop wherein you will create a beautiful hair off buckskin leather the old fashioned way using the brains of the animal to make the leather soft. This method has been used by native americans and stone age peoples all over the world for hundreds of years to create a soft chamois type of leather. You will take home a finished, smoked brain tanned deerskin. We will spend Tuesday scraping the hair and grain from the hide. Wednesday we will brain and soften the hides and Thursday we will sew and smoke them. This is a three day workshop and you will need to be present for the entire class on all three days.

Considered by many to be the “gateway” class to many other skills opening up possibilities as a tremendous resource for food, tools, hides, and other useful projects. Understanding NOT all animals you come across are created equal. Learn the tips, tricks, and strategies for evaluating expired animals (big and small) making the most out of your acquisition. Learn to develop a discerning eye for which animal will work and which won’t. Most importantly end up with the essentials for creating your own car kit.

Mullein is an abundant local weed with a fantastic history as a medicine and tool. We'll learn the easy and fun art of making mullein candles or "hag's tapers" as they have come to be known. Their uses historically as well as the medicinal uses of this amazing plant will be covered. Go home with a candle all your own!

Learn to coil with the basic stitch unless you’ve taken the class before, then you can fancify your design. Size and shape depends on your prowess. :} Hear stories, ask questions.

Pottery! Pottery! Pottery! Come work with rotted rock. We'll be making bowls, cups, beads, shakers, small oil lamps, figurines - whatever your imagination desires. Pinch pots, coiling, paddling, burnishing - learn the many methods and techniques with master primitive potter Keith. Class is ongoing. Drop in and stay a while. If you want to fire a pot on Saturday, you need to finish it early Friday.

Class consists of reducing freshly cut white ash log sections into 'splints' by pounding with billets and sledge hammers to release individual growth rings into full length strips. Participants are required to process their own splints for making their baskets. Further processing requires 'riving' the growth ring strips (dividing them by thickness) into the finished splints using a 'river' (pronounced rYver), a wood device the splints are pulled through. This is an on-going, progressive class where participants may start on different days, produce their splints, and then begin weaving whatever basket they decide to make. Projected production time to make splints ready for weaving: approx. 1 full day. Basket making portion of class could take 1-3 days depending on size and complexity of basket design. Need to bring a sharp knife, some kind of heavy 'pounder' (2 lb sledge, camp hatchet with sheath, or heavy wood billet), chair, clothes pins, and any basketmaking tools you wish.

Make a rivercane blowgun or flute - your choice! Class open to ages 8 and up (or younger with a parent or guardian).

Come learn the classic art of building structures using timber framing techniques. We will be building an actual timber frame that can be taken apart and moved. Come join us!

The Traditional Self Bow Building workshop engages in the fine art of bow making; learning to carve and shape a single piece of wood into a beautiful and efficient hunting bow. While participating in this four day workshop you will experience the complete process of bow making from start to finish. This is not a survival or quickie bow class. Tools included Material fee for staves $30-$100

I will share some of my experiences with questing and its impact in my life. Why I think everyone could benefit from at least one Quest experience. My first Quest was in 1997. I learned the Art of Quest through the Tom Brown Wilderness Survival School and have participated in Quests in Ontario Canada, the Pine Barrens, NJ, Shelter Island, NY, Yellow Springs, OH, and near Earthaven Eco-village, NC. I care deeply about questing and love to facilitate and support them. If you have experience with Vision Questing you are invited to come and share in the conversation. If you have always wanted to learn more about Vision Quests and have questions you would like to ask - now would be a good moment. Ages 14 and up

Learn to manipulate loose wool roving around a resist to create a seamless felted pouch. This is an introduction to this primitive textile skill that uses hot water, soap, and “elbow grease” to turn loose fibers into a sturdy, solid fabric. Ages 12+ 8 students $15

This is an ongoing, drop in class that needs your help! Tanning a bison in a week is no easy task and it takes a village to do it! At anytime during the gathering come and help us tan this beautiful beast and learn the process of brain tanning large hides with the dry scrape technique. In 4 days we will tan the entire bison hide and then after the hide has been imbue with all of our hard-work and magic, it will be put up as an item in our 50/50 raffle! Come and lend your energy and let us gather around this project! All are welcome! We need your help! The schedule for the project will look something like this: Day 1: Making the Frame, framing the hide, fleshing the hide (full day) Day 2: Thinning the hide and Dressing #1 (full day) Day 3: Dressing #2 and #3 and softening (full day) THURSDAY Day 4: Smoking the hide (full day) Bison and other large, now extinct, megafauna used to roam the landscape of North America alongside humans. With stone tools in hand and prayers of gratitude in heart, humans formed deep relation with the Bison that lasted tens of thousands of years. With the few Bison that remain, we can again learn to connect with them by tanning their hides for clothes, blankets, shelter, and hundreds of other uses. Come and remember what it feels like to be in awe of such a large beast.

CONTINUATION FROM TUESDAY MORNING CLASS - NO NEW STUDENTS PLEASE 3 day intensive workshop wherein you will create a beautiful hair off buckskin leather the old fashioned way using the brains of the animal to make the leather soft. This method has been used by native americans and stone age peoples all over the world for hundreds of years to create a soft chamois type of leather. You will take home a finished, smoked brain tanned deerskin. We will spend Tuesday scraping the hair and grain from the hide. Wednesday we will brain and soften the hides and Thursday we will sew and smoke them. This is a three day workshop and you will need to be present for the entire class on all three days.

Carve an elegant and useful hair comb for yourself or a special friend. We'll probably have some lovely cherry wood on hand. Bring a sharp knife. Kids under 10 need to bring a parent.

Gathering our own vines, we’ll identify what works, what splits and what doesn’t. Ages 12 and up.

Learn to prepare and spin wool fleece to create yarn on a drop spindle. Then have the opportunity to spin your wool on different drop spindles and explore a bit of what is possible. Warning: spinning is an addictive past time! But don't worry, drop spindles can be purchased for an additional fee. Class material fee is $5 for fibers.

Remedies for pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, and newborns in the wise woman way.

Learn a different way to add herbs into your diet by making Herbal Bliss Balls. They are made with nut butters, a sweetener, the herb(s) powders of choice and add-ins (dried fruit,etc.). They are really tasty and easy to make. Everyone will get to try what we make and take some with them.

Pottery! Pottery! Pottery! Come work with rotted rock. We'll be making bowls, cups, beads, shakers, small oil lamps, figurines - whatever your imagination desires. Pinch pots, coiling, paddling, burnishing - learn the many methods and techniques with master primitive potter Keith. Class is ongoing. Drop in and stay a while. If you want to fire a pot on Saturday, you need to finish it early Friday.

Class consists of reducing freshly cut white ash log sections into 'splints' by pounding with billets and sledge hammers to release individual growth rings into full length strips. Participants are required to process their own splints for making their baskets. Further processing requires 'riving' the growth ring strips (dividing them by thickness) into the finished splints using a 'river' (pronounced rYver), a wood device the splints are pulled through. This is an on-going, progressive class where participants may start on different days, produce their splints, and then begin weaving whatever basket they decide to make. Projected production time to make splints ready for weaving: approx. 1 full day. Basket making portion of class could take 1-3 days depending on size and complexity of basket design. Need to bring a sharp knife, some kind of heavy 'pounder' (2 lb sledge, camp hatchet with sheath, or heavy wood billet), chair, clothes pins, and any basketmaking tools you wish.

Make a rivercane blowgun or flute -your choice! Class open to ages 8 and up (or younger with a parent or guardian).

Your emotions—especially the dark and dishonored ones—hold a tremendous amount of energy and potential to direct your life and relationships, but they can be confusing grounds to navigate. Through experiential exercises covering a full spectrum of feelings from anger, fear, and shame to jealousy, grief, joy, and more, we will have some fun in discovering how to work with our own and others' emotions with fluency and expertise. Trigger Warning: Classes dealing with heavy emotions can bring up some intense fear and discomfort in our bodies. The intention of the class is to help you face and make peace with fear if it arises. We are here to support you. Please ask for help if you need it. If you prefer not to work in potentially uncomfortable emotional territory, you may not want to take this class.

Twining basics. Small bags using the twining (two weavers) technique with cotton, jute, waxed cotton, or hemp warp and yarn, hemp, or waxed cotton weavers. Bonus skill: super quick 4 ply corded strap.

Join Doug for a lively, informative wild plant walk. We'll discuss weeds, mushrooms, woodslore, critters, useful wild plants, ecology, natural history, and much more! For many years Doug earned his living as a traveling herbalist collecting and selling herbs, teas and old-time remedies. Along with healing plants, Doug searches out old-timers and elders from various cultures. From these bearers of tradition, he has assembled an extensive body of knowledge of the botanical aspects of plants, their history, legends, and lore; their uses in various cultures, medicinal properties, food value, as well as other practical ways we can use wild plants every day.

Continuation of morning class

CONTINUATION FROM TUESDAY MORNING CLASS - NO NEW STUDENTS PLEASE 3 day intensive workshop wherein you will create a beautiful hair off buckskin leather the old fashioned way using the brains of the animal to make the leather soft. This method has been used by native americans and stone age peoples all over the world for hundreds of years to create a soft chamois type of leather. You will take home a finished, smoked brain tanned deerskin. We will spend Tuesday scraping the hair and grain from the hide. Wednesday we will brain and soften the hides and Thursday we will sew and smoke them. This is a three day workshop and you will need to be present for the entire class on all three days.

Make and shoot the ancient small game hunting weapon of the Southeastern Indians.

Kudzu was introduced to the Southeast in 1883 at the New Orleans Exposition, by 1946, it was estimated that 3,000,000 acres of kudzu had been planted to help with erosion. Now, though it is a useful tool, Kudzu has become invasive to the Southeast. Come and learn an old style of basketry on a non-traditional material. Free Form is the finger painting of basket making. Easy and free flowing with room for creative design. Bring a knife if you have one, and a willingness to learn!

Pottery! Pottery! Pottery! Come work with rotted rock. We'll be making bowls, cups, beads, shakers, small oil lamps, figurines - whatever your imagination desires. Pinch pots, coiling, paddling, burnishing - learn the many methods and techniques with master primitive potter Keith. Class is ongoing. Drop in and stay a while. If you want to fire a pot on Saturday, you need to finish it early Friday.

Class consists of reducing freshly cut white ash log sections into 'splints' by pounding with billets and sledge hammers to release individual growth rings into full length strips. Participants are required to process their own splints for making their baskets. Further processing requires 'riving' the growth ring strips (dividing them by thickness) into the finished splints using a 'river' (pronounced rYver), a wood device the splints are pulled through. This is an on-going, progressive class where participants may start on different days, produce their splints, and then begin weaving whatever basket they decide to make. Projected production time to make splints ready for weaving: approx. 1 full day. Basket making portion of class could take 1-3 days depending on size and complexity of basket design. Need to bring a sharp knife, some kind of heavy 'pounder' (2 lb sledge, camp hatchet with sheath, or heavy wood billet), chair, clothes pins, and any basketmaking tools you wish.

Make a Native American flute out of rivercane or make a blowgun - your choice! Ages 8 and up (or younger with a parent or guardian).

Learn the fundamentals of Appalachian and Southern Folk medicine as a living practice. What makes our region and folk healing practices unique? Things like the broad cultural influences from Indigenous medicine, European humoral models to West African spiritual traditions. Key plant species used and classic remedies will be covered and we'll sample a few ourselves. Come ready to taste, mix, touch and smell barks, powders, teas and syrups. We will taste and try a variety of classic medicines from this bioregion's history.

Humans live and breathe stories - the stories we tell, the stories we love to listen to, the stories we use to make sense of the world - and we all have stories of our own. Sometimes, though, our stories don't get heard in the way we need. And if someone else wants to share with us, how do we receive those stories so that the teller feels heard? This workshop won't focus on performative storytelling. Instead, we'll each get a chance to share some of our personal stories - from lighthearted to deeply meaningful, as each person chooses. We'll also learn and practice different ways of listening deeply to the stories we're told... while tuning into our own senses and our curiosity. Bring something to write on and with if you can. Some paper and pens will also be provided.

Come learn the classic art of building structures using timber framing techniques. We will be building an actual timber frame that can be taken apart and moved. Come join us!

The Traditional Self Bow Building workshop engages in the fine art of bow making; learning to carve and shape a single piece of wood into a beautiful and efficient hunting bow. While participating in this four day workshop you will experience the complete process of bow making from start to finish. This is not a survival or quickie bow class. Tools included Material fee for staves $30-$100

Beginning finger weaving - diagonals - a true weave using just fingers and yarn. Weave a hat band, belt, or strap.

Carve your own bowl! Learn the joys of working with green wood. Please bring a sharp knife. It will probably take you more than one class period to finish your project, so come prepared to stay all day. Ages 10 and up.

This is an ongoing, drop in class that needs your help! Tanning a bison in a week is no easy task and it takes a village to do it! At anytime during the gathering come and help us tan this beautiful beast and learn the process of brain tanning large hides with the dry scrape technique. In 4 days we will tan the entire bison hide and then after the hide has been imbue with all of our hard-work and magic, it will be put up as an item in our 50/50 raffle! Come and lend your energy and let us gather around this project! All are welcome! We need your help! The schedule for the project will look something like this: Day 1: Making the Frame, framing the hide, fleshing the hide (full day) Day 2: Thinning the hide and Dressing #1 (full day) Day 3: Dressing #2 and #3 and softening (full day) Day 4: Smoking the hide (full day) FRIDAY Bison and other large, now extinct, megafauna used to roam the landscape of North America alongside humans. With stone tools in hand and prayers of gratitude in heart, humans formed deep relation with the Bison that lasted tens of thousands of years. With the few Bison that remain, we can again learn to connect with them by tanning their hides for clothes, blankets, shelter, and hundreds of other uses. Come and remember what it feels like to be in awe of such a large beast.

In this class we will use square cards with holes punched in each corner to weave bands that could be used for very sturdy belts or straps. Card weaving is also sometimes referred as Tablet weaving and has a rich and long history. It was commonly used in the Bronze Age throughout Europe to produce beautiful and decorative borders and belts and examples have also been found in China, Russia, the Middle East, and Egypt. You will walk away with your own set of cards and the knowledge to create your own pattern drafts for future projects. This is an all day class!

Many of us live in the southeastern part of what's now called the U.S., which means some of our homes are on the ancestral lands of the Cherokee people. Come explore this land's history and present by learning about Cherokee culture today, and about the complex and fascinating Cherokee language, from Cherokee elder White Eagle Taylor. We'll start with Cherokee-language songs, greetings, and introductions. Later, we'll play language-learning games that'll enable everyone to acquire vocabulary quickly and engage in basic conversation about concrete objects. Interested participants can take home, or be emailed, a list of language-learning resources. Date and time subject to change!

Learning all about the notorious vine, split a small section of kudzu, sew kudzu pieces together in a basket shape of your choosing. Ages 12 and up.

Join me on this story-form journey into the life of Harriet Tubman. We will explore how one woman survived being hunted in the wilderness from Maryland to Canada all while saving the lives of over 70 individuals, suffering from narcolepsy, hearing voices and navigating by the stars.

Come explore the rich color palate found in our amazing native plants and mushrooms! We will identify the optimal plants to use for dyes and discuss different types of mordants and common color extraction techniques as we go through the entire process of natural plant dyes. Participants will take home silk and/or wool samples. Bring a *small natural fiber* for the dye pots or purchase wool yarn or silk from me. Class fee $5 for materials. Additional $6 for silk scarf

This is a discussion-based class in which we will explore the under-emphasized topic of postpartum health and well-being, and how this ties into community resiliency on a greater level. We will explore how to support mothers through this initiation with proper rest, nourishment, warmth, bodywork and community building. We'll talk about how these methods of support can help to alleviate postpartum depression and other health issues that can come up in the postpartum time. If you are interested in becoming a parent (mother or father), or know anyone who might be interested in becoming a parent, this is useful and helpful information - providing you with tools to help support the new mother, or yourself on the motherhood journey. **ALL GENDERS WELCOME** Ages 15 and up.

Pottery! Pottery! Pottery! Come work with rotted rock. We'll be making bowls, cups, beads, shakers, small oil lamps, figurines - whatever your imagination desires. Pinch pots, coiling, paddling, burnishing - learn the many methods and techniques with master primitive potter Keith. Class is ongoing. Drop in and stay a while. If you want to fire a pot on Saturday, you need to finish it early Friday.

Class consists of reducing freshly cut white ash log sections into 'splints' by pounding with billets and sledge hammers to release individual growth rings into full length strips. Participants are required to process their own splints for making their baskets. Further processing requires 'riving' the growth ring strips (dividing them by thickness) into the finished splints using a 'river' (pronounced rYver), a wood device the splints are pulled through. This is an on-going, progressive class where participants may start on different days, produce their splints, and then begin weaving whatever basket they decide to make. Projected production time to make splints ready for weaving: approx. 1 full day. Basket making portion of class could take 1-3 days depending on size and complexity of basket design. Need to bring a sharp knife, some kind of heavy 'pounder' (2 lb sledge, camp hatchet with sheath, or heavy wood billet), chair, clothes pins, and any basketmaking tools you wish.

In this class we will learn many different skills to make one beautiful creation. We will take deer rawhide and sew the head of the rattle, then fill it with beads, seeds, and a variety of things, to make our favorite sounds. We will hand carve a wooden handle, practicing our knife skills, and attach the pieces to make our own unique instrument. These will be perfect for late night drum circles around main fire! This is an all day class, so bring the things you will need to make yourself comfortable, along with a sharp knife and a water bottle. ALL DAY CLASS

Make a Native American flute from rivercane or make a blowgun - your choice! Ages 8 and up (or younger with a parent or guardian).

Forge a small knife with an integrated handle from high carbon steel. Class will include forging, hardening and tempering the knife. Ages 16 and up. 2-PART CLASS! Class will run this morning AND tomorrow morning for you to finish your knives, so please plan accordingly.

ALL DAY CLASS Learn to make custom fitted traditional footwear of the Southeastern Native tribes. This is an all day class. You must bring or buy buckskin. The morning will consist of pattern making, discussion of design, choosing hides and layout. We will sew them in the afternoon! Go home with the most comfortable footwear you have ever worn!

Growing up in the dominant culture can be incredibly confusing. The actions of our parents, a school system that we are obligated to go to, a lack of rites of passages and ceremonies, and being raised to become well paid and powerful can conflict with what our true calling and purpose as humans is. Come examine the ramifications of what happened during your childhood, and empower yourself through this awareness. Connect the dots to behaviors that are showing up today, and gain a deeper understanding of your preferences, attitudes, biases and wounds. Trigger Warning: Classes dealing with heavy emotions can bring up some intense fear and discomfort in our bodies. The intention of the class is to help you face and make peace with fear if it arises. We are here to support you. Please ask for help if you need it. If you prefer not to work in potentially uncomfortable emotional territory, you may not want to take this class.

Come explore the world of zizania paulustris, wild rice. We will discuss ethnobotany of this super important food, its ecology, life-cycle and the traditional harvesting of this aquatic grass. While celebrating this amazing plant, we will also process it with fire, buckskin, dance moves and wind. All day, we'll be there and the techniques used can be utilized for other wilderness "grains" as well. Rice will be sold for 15$ a pound. Class capacity is limitless - if you're interested, come.

We will be making an aphrodisiac elixer. Our focus will be an in depth look at aphrodisiacs and how they work on deep levels as well as in the moment. We will consider creating blends to suit particular needs and even talk a bit about other forms of aphrodisiacs. You may take some home with you . . . if you don't drink it all in the class!

CONTINUATION FROM MORNING CLASS. Come carve your own bowl! Learn the joys of working with green wood. Please bring a sharp knife. It may take you more than one class period to finish your project.

Join us for an ongoing demonstration of the traditional art of open fire cooking.

In this class we will use square cards with holes punched in each corner to weave bands that could be used for very sturdy belts or straps. Card weaving is also sometimes referred as Tablet weaving and has a rich and long history. It was commonly used in the Bronze Age throughout Europe to produce beautiful and decorative borders and belts and examples have also been found in China, Russia, the Middle East, and Egypt. You will walk away with your own set of cards and the knowledge to create your own pattern drafts for future projects. This is an all day class!

How can you forage in an ethical and realistic way today? Join Becky Beyer of the Sassafras School to learn the basics of foraging in Spring and how foraging can be a real way to nourish yourself from the land. We'll discus sustainability, ethics, land access and history, and how to even plan meals around wild foods in our region while meeting some common Springtime edibles and medicinals. We'll cook up a little dish at the end of class with our bounty.

Introduction to Reiki for the Family An overview of reiki - what it is and what it is not. Reiki is an alternative, inherent energy system that everyone has within themselves and this overview talks about how one can enhance healing and calming into their family needs and daily living.

Join rock hound Keith Grenoble for a romp down the creek making various tools from the local rocks. We'll make scrapers, burins, saws and slicers with added awareness of the mineralology in that region. Bring your magnifying glasses or hand lens if you have one for looking at minerals.

Class consists of reducing freshly cut white ash log sections into 'splints' by pounding with billets and sledge hammers to release individual growth rings into full length strips. Participants are required to process their own splints for making their baskets. Further processing requires 'riving' the growth ring strips (dividing them by thickness) into the finished splints using a 'river' (pronounced rYver), a wood device the splints are pulled through. This is an on-going, progressive class where participants may start on different days, produce their splints, and then begin weaving whatever basket they decide to make. Projected production time to make splints ready for weaving: approx. 1 full day. Basket making portion of class could take 1-3 days depending on size and complexity of basket design. Need to bring a sharp knife, some kind of heavy 'pounder' (2 lb sledge, camp hatchet with sheath, or heavy wood billet), chair, clothes pins, and any basketmaking tools you wish.

CONTINUATION FROM MORNING - NO NEW STUDENTS PLEASE In this class we will learn many different skills to make one beautiful creation. We will take deer rawhide and sew the head of the rattle, then fill it with beads, seeds, and a variety of things, to make our favorite sounds. We will hand carve a wooden handle, practicing our knife skills, and attach the pieces to make our own unique instrument. These will be perfect for late night drum circles around main fire! This is an all day class, so bring the things you will need to make yourself comfortable, along with a sharp knife and a water bottle. ALL DAY CLASS

Continuation of southeastern moccasin making class - no new students please. Students will take their patterns, lay them out on buckskin, cut them out and learn stitching techniques. We will discuss options for high tops, padded insoles and added outer soles. You will probably finish yours by the end of the day or soon after!

The Traditional Self Bow Building workshop engages in the fine art of bow making; learning to carve and shape a single piece of wood into a beautiful and efficient hunting bow. While participating in this four day workshop you will experience the complete process of bow making from start to finish. This is not a survival or quickie bow class. Tools included Material fee for staves $30-$100

Come explore the world of zizania paulustris, wild rice. We will discuss ethnobotany of this super important food, its ecology, life-cycle and the traditional harvesting of this aquatic grass. While celebrating this amazing plant, we will also process it with fire, buckskin, dance moves and wind. All day, we'll be there and the techniques used can be utilized for other wilderness "grains" as well. Rice will be sold for 15$ a pound. Class capacity is limitless - if you're interested, come.

Make tools for sewing and perforating leather and other materials from animal bones. Learn techniques for handling bone as a material, and make a beautiful and useful awl to take home. Ages 12 and up.

Learn how to gather this tough and durable plant no one wants. Sew it into a rustic bowl or handled vessel. Learn about coil size and alternate materials for making functional baskets “quickly”. Ages 12 and up.

Do you find yourself longing for a compassionate community and deeper connections? Join Jon, Life coach and co-founder of Awakening Harmony as he gently guides our group on the path to intimacy. We'll go through vulnerable activities, share in small and large groups, experientially explore intimacy safely and deeply and emerge feeling more connected to each other. You don't need to be in a partnership to attend and no one will be forced to do anything they don't want to, so come with a willing attitude to present and be received for who you authentically are. Trigger Warning: Classes dealing with heavy emotions can bring up some intense fear and discomfort in our bodies. The intention of the class is to help you face and make peace with fear if it arises. We are here to support you. Please ask for help if you need it. If you prefer not to work in potentially uncomfortable emotional territory, you may not want to take this class.

You are probably familiar with braided rag rugs that are braided from strips of scrap fabric and then stitched together. Well, I am here to tell you that the stitching is always the weakest link and there is a better way! By using four strands that weave back on previous rows we will be making ultra sturdy floor coverings for your home, tent, shack, van, or shanty. Expect to make something big enough to set in a chair but with the knowledge to make a bigger rug. Added benefit is that ripping fabric is incredibly therapeutic! Material fee sliding scale: 5-10$ open to trades

Whether you are a clinician or just seeking better control of your own health, this workshop will empower you with practical knowledge and tools: 1)The latest from Anti-aging research and Biohacking movement, Cellular/mitochondria optimization. These are super active fields and bringing out the next level of healing, and changing our illness focus to a mentality of Thriving; 2)Order your own lab tests, including When to do genetic testing and what’s the deal with MTHFR; 3)"The Body Never Forgets How to Repair itself". So long as we recognize many hidden epidemics are the root cause of chronic illness, such as mercury from amalgam and how to test them; 4)Demystify digestive disorders such as IBS/Leaky Guts/SIBO/Candida/Parasite/Biofilm; 5)Common medications and Herb-drug interaction. Hands on demo of cheap home devices, such as Blood Pressure, Glucose monitors, Oura ring for sleep tracking. Bring a pen!

An opportunity for People of Color to sit together in a space that prioritizes their voices, and have leaders and representatives of Earth Skills listen ONLY to their collective experiences.

Participants will learn to hand-craft their own Native American-style, end-blown, flute. Adults & Youth-Ages 10 and up. Materials/Tool Use Fee: $10.00

Come explore the rich color palate found in our amazing native plants and mushrooms! We will identify the optimal plants to use for dyes and discuss different types of mordants and common color extraction techniques as we go through the entire process of natural plant dyes. Participants will take home silk and/or wool samples. Bring a *small natural fiber* for the dye pots or purchase wool yarn or silk from me. Class fee $5 for materials. Additional $6 for silk scarf.

Continuation of the neck knife class from yesterday afternoon. No new students please.

Pottery! Pottery! Pottery! Fire is an essential element in finishing your pots! Bring your pots to the fire and come learn how to properly fire them in an open fire pit. Come work with rotted rock. We'll be making bowls, cups, beads, shakers, small oil lamps, figurines - whatever your imagination desires. Pinch pots, coiling, paddling, burnishing - learn the many methods and techniques with master primitive potter Keith. Just so you know, anything you make today will probably not be dry enough to fire tonight.

Class consists of reducing freshly cut white ash log sections into 'splints' by pounding with billets and sledge hammers to release individual growth rings into full length strips. Participants are required to process their own splints for making their baskets. Further processing requires 'riving' the growth ring strips (dividing them by thickness) into the finished splints using a 'river' (pronounced rYver), a wood device the splints are pulled through. This is an on-going, progressive class where participants may start on different days, produce their splints, and then begin weaving whatever basket they decide to make. Projected production time to make splints ready for weaving: approx. 1 full day. Basket making portion of class could take 1-3 days depending on size and complexity of basket design. Need to bring a sharp knife, some kind of heavy 'pounder' (2 lb sledge, camp hatchet with sheath, or heavy wood billet), chair, clothes pins, and any basketmaking tools you wish.

Make a Native American flute out of rivercane or a blowgun - your choice! Ages 8 and up (or younger with a parent or guardian).

A stick will fly with a force applied, but will it be consistent? Let's apply some physics to this projectile and create a formidable, consistent tool. Bring a sharp knife, leather gloves, and yer curiosity. Materials fee is $5-10.

Join Rendezvous founder Darry Wood to learn how to safely and effectively use and sharpen the basic tools of a camping lifestyle.

Come carve your own spoon! Please bring a sharp knife. All ages welcome. Kids under 10 need to bring a parent.

Already tried wet felting and feel ready to move on to a larger project? Want to make a hat or bigger bag? This all-day class will build on what you learned about wool and water and give you the opportunity to really cement your skills. Age limit 15 yrs. 6 students $25+ depending on size of project

Before avocado oil and olive oil were available, how did people make salves? We'll use plant medicines from the local land and animal fat ethically obtained to create a traditional salve that melds into the skin like no other while we learn the history of this art. In a world without global shipping, how can we care for our skin? We'll cover the basics of infused oils and salves and make one together that you can take home.

Hand-craft your own traditional, bamboo (Native American, Asian, or European-styles) flute - pentatonic & diatonic scale - side & end-blown types. Ages 12 and up are welcome.

A Medicine Making overview: covering the range of common medicine making - potent teas (also known as infusions), decoctions, vinegars, tinctures, oils/salves. We will actually make a tincture, an infusion and a salve (which you may take home with you).

Pottery! Pottery! Pottery! Fire is an essential element in finishing your pots! Bring your pots to the fire and come learn how to properly fire them in an open fire pit. Come work with rotted rock. We'll be making bowls, cups, beads, shakers, small oil lamps, figurines - whatever your imagination desires. Pinch pots, coiling, paddling, burnishing - learn the many methods and techniques with master primitive potter Keith. Just so you know, anything you make today will probably not be dry enough to fire tonight.

Class consists of reducing freshly cut white ash log sections into 'splints' by pounding with billets and sledge hammers to release individual growth rings into full length strips. Participants are required to process their own splints for making their baskets. Further processing requires 'riving' the growth ring strips (dividing them by thickness) into the finished splints using a 'river' (pronounced rYver), a wood device the splints are pulled through. This is an on-going, progressive class where participants may start on different days, produce their splints, and then begin weaving whatever basket they decide to make. Projected production time to make splints ready for weaving: approx. 1 full day. Basket making portion of class could take 1-3 days depending on size and complexity of basket design. Need to bring a sharp knife, some kind of heavy 'pounder' (2 lb sledge, camp hatchet with sheath, or heavy wood billet), chair, clothes pins, and any basketmaking tools you wish. Saturday class will be devoted to finishing and refining the baskets each participant has made during the week. Each person may leave with any or all the extra splints they have produced.

Make a Native American flute out of rivercane or a blowgun - your choice! Ages 8 and up (or younger with a parent or guardian).

A stick will fly with a force applied, but will it be consistent? Let's apply some physics to this projectile and create a formidable, consistent tool. Bring a sharp knife, leather gloves, and yer curiosity. Materials fee is $5-10.

What does adulthood mean? Is it about reaching a certain age, becoming self-sufficient, growing into greater emotional maturity, "settling down" with a job and mortgage... or something more? If, as some say, full adulthood involves knowing your gifts and sharing them with the world, how can any of us get there? How do visions and ideals translate into practical means of building a life? And how do we achieve any of this when the modern world doesn't make it easy? In this class, we'll dive into these questions and more. Whether you've walked the path of full adulthood for years, are in the midst of that transition, or are curious what any of this might mean, you are welcome to come and explore who you are, where you're going, and what would support your journey. Here's a secret: None of us can answer these questions fully in the absence of community. Let's show up for each other, for ourselves, and for a future in which more and more people come fully alive. Adults and mature teens welcome. Bring writing materials if you can. Some paper and pens will also be provided.

Come learn the classic art of building structures using timber framing techniques. We will be building an actual timber frame that can be taken apart and moved. Come join us!

The Traditional Self Bow Building workshop engages in the fine art of bow making; learning to carve and shape a single piece of wood into a beautiful and efficient hunting bow. While participating in this four day workshop you will experience the complete process of bow making from start to finish. This is not a survival or quickie bow class. Tools included Material fee for staves $30-$100

Continuation from the morning session

We will learn about several species of vines and other fibrous plants, how to collect and prepare them. Then we weave distinctive, useful baskets using the spoke technique. Design a basket for a unique need! Age limit 12 and up.

Using traditional brain tanned deer leather, we will create a small project (i.e. a shoulder bag, journal, or belt pouch). We will discuss tanning, patterning, sourcing materials, types of leather, stitching and clothing construction. 20$ a square foot for the buckskin (so your materials fee will depend on your project size).

Come complete your wooden projects! Don't take that project home unfinished (will you really work on it at home, really?). Enjoy the thrill of completion and proudly show your new creation to your friends. This is your chance to get it done.

Whether you are a clinician or just seeking better control of your own health, this workshop will empower you with practical knowledge and tools: 1)The latest from Anti-aging research and Biohacking movement, Cellular/mitochondria optimization. These are super active fields and bringing out the next level of healing, and changing our illness focus to a mentality of Thriving; 2)Order your own lab tests, including When to do genetic testing and what’s the deal with MTHFR; 3)"The Body Never Forgets How to Repair itself". So long as we recognize many hidden epidemics are the root cause of chronic illness, such as mercury from amalgam and how to test them; 4)Demystify digestive disorders such as IBS/Leaky Guts/SIBO/Candida/Parasite/Biofilm; 5)Common medications and Herb-drug interaction. Hands on demo of cheap home devices, such as Blood Pressure, Glucose monitors, Oura ring for sleep tracking. Bring a pen!

Create decorative buttons from various coins. Ages 12 and up.

Participants will make their own Native American-style Flute. Ages 10 and up. Youngsters may need an adult to help them.

Make a rivercane blowgun or flutes - your choice! Class open to ages 8 and up (or younger with a parent or guardian).

Humans live and breathe stories - the stories we tell, the stories we love to listen to, the stories we use to make sense of the world - and we all have stories of our own. Sometimes, though, our stories don't get heard in the way we need. And if someone else wants to share with us, how do we receive those stories so that the teller feels heard? This workshop won't focus on performative storytelling. Instead, we'll each get a chance to share some of our personal stories - from lighthearted to deeply meaningful, as each person chooses. We'll also learn and practice different ways of listening deeply to the stories we're told... while tuning into our own senses and our curiosity. Bring something to write on and with if you can. Some paper and pens will also be provided.

Holding a grudge can be toxic for your life and community. True reconciliation exposes the awfulness, the abuse, the hurt, the truth. It's a risky undertaking, and the practice of forgiving is not easy, doesn't come quickly, and can be damaging if done inauthentically. When one does choose to engage with the process, it produces meaningful and important insights into who we are in relation to ourselves and others. Only an honest confrontation with reality can bring about real healing. Forgiving is not forgetting; it’s a second chance for a new beginning, and an opportunity to avoid repeating what happened. Trigger Warning: Classes dealing with heavy emotions can bring up some intense fear and discomfort in our bodies. The intention of the class is to help you face and make peace with fear if it arises. We are here to support you. Please ask for help if you need it. If you prefer not to work in potentially uncomfortable emotional territory, you may not want to take this class.

Tour my studio, gallery and kudzu bale barn. Car pool 15 min away. See 8 ft sculptures. Hear stories, get back for closing ceremony. All ages welcome!