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How to Use Knapping to Create a Vertical Edge

Knapping involves chipping away at a material, such as a stone or other hard surface, using a chisel or hammer. The art of knapping has been present worldwide for centuries, and has been used to assist in the creation of weapons and tools such as arrowheads and axes. Though knapping is an art no longer necessary due to industrialization, it may still be used to create a vertical edge for a variety of materials.

Things You'll Need

Small piece of leather
Stone for knapping (flint is common)
Stone for hammering (a hard rock with a narrow end)
Piece of bone or antler baton

Instructions

- 1
  Place a piece of leather, or a similar material, over the palm of your hand to protect it from damage. Place the stone to be knapped on top of the material.
- 2
  Use a downward motion to hit the stone with your hammer stone. Start at the top of the item you're knapping and work your way down.
- 3
  Continue the striking motion, chipping off bits of the stone as you go. Keep knapping until you are satisfied with the vertical edge you have created. Repeat the striking motion on the opposite side.
- 4
  Use a piece of bone, or similar object, to apply pressure along your vertical edge. By pushing down firmly with the bone toward the edge of the stone, you should be able to create a sharp and clean edge. Continue this process until the edge meets your needs.

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