I wrote an article called “Crossover Tools And Applications” where I described my experience of shopping in a beauty supply store and found resources that worked well as survival tools. Similarly I stopped in a pet store and was surprised to find items that could be used for primitive tools and associated projects.

There were elk antler pieces stocked for prairie dog chews that I could use for flint knapping billets and points for pressure flaking. Short to long tendons were stocked as dog chews that could be hydrated and stripped for binding cordage or for stitching thread. Different sized bones were stocked that could be used as tools for digging or as a weapon such as a club or broken into shards for use as projectile points or as a fish gorge. There were also cattle and sheep hooves meant as dog chews that could be used for primitive ornamentation or made into a bell for ceremonies or as a trip line motion alarm. Raw hide sticks (not shown) can be re-hydrated and cut into strips for lashing or for forming knife sheaths.

These are a few suggestions for resource applications. I would love to hear about your applications for these resources or suggestions for other similar resources not mentioned.

Yesterday was my first time participating as a vendor at the Wilkesboro Open Air Market and had a totally great time. I had the opportunity to meet many local friends and website visitors. I was able to teach solar and flint & steel fire methods to those who had previously never tried it and were successful in making their first fire using those techniques. They walked away standing a little taller, being better prepared for future fire needs. We had a lot of fun. I demonstrated bow and spindle technique using Red Cedar fire kits. I’ve discovered that Red Cedar will heat quickly, but it also cools quickly, and takes special care in the process. It took several tries throughout the afternoon, but in the end I had success as the on-lookers applauded.

All Open Air Market events take place in Historic Downtown Wilkesboro in the town-owned parking lot near Havana Dreams (except for the Oct. 22 event, which will be held in Cub Creek Park.) Baring any unforeseen circumstance, I plan to be a regular vendor located at the far end of the lot. Just follow the camp fire aroma to my booth.