Main Project Aesthetics: Flint Knapping Tool Set

My current idea for my main project is to make a set of flint knapping tools to replace the cheap(ish) ones I have now. If you aren’t familiar, flint knapping is the practice of shaping chert, flint, obsidian, or other similar materials through percussion (hitting it the stone with antler or copper tools). I currently have some wooden and plastic boppers and pressure flakers and I thought it might be cool to make some out of higher quality material.

I am not too sure on the aesthetic yet but I as of now I am planning on machining the tools out of aluminum and copper, which would result in a very minimalistic, modern aesthetic. I think the copper and aluminum would look really nice together if I finished the metal nicely with high grit sandpaper and maybe some scotch brite. Below are images of more authentic antler and stone knapping tools and the more modern tools like what I currently own (from GoKnapping.com and Archeology Southwest, respectively). I think it would be cool to incorporate some of the older, more authentic, native american aesthetic into the tools while still having modern functionality. This aesthetic could be acheived by incorporating some leather or other organic material into the machined tools. I am not sure if I am going to go this route, but it is definitely a possibility.

.                 

The main difficulty with changing the aesthetic of the tools is keeping the functionality at the forefront of the design. As tools, function is the most important thing. That being said, organic materials can definitely be functional as long as they are used properly. One thing I was thinking was to use a leather strap to hold the percussion flaker under the user’s leg. This would bring back some of that more classic native american aesthetic while also being very functional and strong.

Above are the two sketches for two other aesthetics that could be possible. The one on the left is made from delrin and the one on the right from wood. This would drastically change the aesthetic, especially the wooden one. While it would have a more authentic look, I still think I prefer the idea of aluminum, because it would be very strong and lightweight. Also I wouldn’t be able to thread a set screw into the wood.

Overall, I’m excited for this project idea as it will allow me to make a functional yet beautiful product that I can use for years to come.