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How to Make Arrowheads by Hand

You can make arrowheads by hand in much the same way that Native Americans once created their weapons for bow and arrow. It takes a little practice and a firm hand to develop skill at flint knapping, which is the craft of cracking and chipping pieces of flint and quartz to form cutting tools. In time, you'll learn where and how hard to strike the flint to chip it into an arrowhead.

Things You'll Need

Pieces of flint or flat quartz
Flat hammer
Hatchet
Coarse file
Wood block about 12 by 12 inches and 3 inches thick.
Spray shellac or lacquer
Modeling paint in assorted colors
Paint brush

Instructions

- 1
  Save time by starting with a piece of flat quartz or flint in a triangular shape. Flint is easier to work with, although black quartz makes a striking arrowhead. A good size to begin with is 1 inch wide by 2 inches long. Unnecessary weight cuts down on the arrow's flight distance.
- 2
  Position the flint or quartz on the block of wood so that the grain of your arrowhead extends from tip to back. Place the the flint or quartz so it hangs over the edge of the block at an angle to form one side of the arrowhead triangle.
- 3
  Strike the edge of the flint or quartz with a hatchet or flat hammer at the point where the piece hangs off the wooden block. Work slowly to chip away and flake the arrowhead into the desired shape.
- 4
  Flip the piece over and chip away at the other side as well, chipping away at the material to hone a point at the top.
- 5
  File the edges of the arrowhead to sharpen toward the point, then file a notch on either side of the arrowhead where it will connect to a shaft.
- 6
  Coat the arrowhead with spray shellac or lacquer for a glossy shine and allow to dry completely. You can also paint any variety of designs on the arrowhead. Use modeling paints that are waterproof and won't wash off.
- 7
  Lace the finished arrowhead to an arrow shaft if desired, using the notches on the end of the arrowhead to hold leather lacing or heavy baling twine. Wrap the lace in an X pattern, over the arrowhead̵7;s back edge and around the arrow shaft, winding the lace underneath the arrowhead to prevent slipping or turning.
- 8
  Decorate the arrow if desired, adding feather strips to the end for improved stability in flight, and a notch at the back of the arrow for your bowstring.

Gemology