An outdoor workshop with Julian & Florian
Making a fire without a lighter or matches - just with wood, string and technology?
In this four-hour workshop, you will learn the fascinating art of making a bowdrill fire. An ancient method from the world of bushcraft and survival - right out in nature.
Whether you want to expand your outdoor skills, are interested in natural crafts or simply want to learn something completely new, this course will provide you with practical knowledge - and plenty of sparks.
Introduction to traditional fire-making
We talk about the history, techniques and cultural significance of fire - including an insight into sparking and the hand drill technique.
Materials & tools
Which woods are suitable? What does good tinder material look like? How do you use a knife safely and effectively in an outdoor context?
Building your own bow drill set
You carve your own fire drill set - step by step and with instructions. Of course you can take it home with you.
Practical exercises
You will practise the technique, learn how to create embers and how to turn them into a real fire. With patience and technique - without any magic.
We - Julian & Florian - are two experienced wilderness educators who pass on our knowledge of traditional fire-making with enthusiasm.
Practical, understandable and with respect for nature.
The course is aimed at anyone aged 18 and over (or accompanied by a supervising adult),
who have a desire for real outdoor knowledge - without any prior knowledge.
Whether you're a bushcraft beginner or a fan of the series "7 vs. Wild":
After this day, you'll know what it really feels like to start a fire with your own strength.
A fixed knife (e.g. Mora with Scandi edge)
A base to sit on (camping mat or cushion)
Weatherproof clothing
Food & drink for yourself
Optional:
Your own tools (saw, axe)
Sidequest for the ambitious: Bring your own wood!
If you want to take on this little challenge, you can bring well-dried poplar or willow branches
(at least 50 mm in diameter) and a piece of hardwood (e.g. beech or hazel for the pressure piece)
and bring them along.
Suitable wood for the spindle and drill board
Paracord for the drill bow
Tinder material
Joint search on site for bow wood & pressure piece
📅 Saturday, October 11, 2025
🕒 11:00 - approx. 15:00 (4 hours)
📍 Decksteiner Weiher, Cologne
You can also find all further information about making bowdrill fires on my website:
👉 florian.latzel.io/bowdrill-seminare-koeln-2025-feuermachen.html