2026 Village Classes
March 7 and 8

BACKPACK BASKET MAKING

Come and weave your very own backpack basket using various hardwoods. Your finished product will be durable, functional and truly lovely!

LEATHER SHOE MAKING

Create your own custom leather shoes with a course that covers design, sewing, and weatherproofing. After this class, you’ll experience the satisfaction of wearing beautifully unique shoes you’ve crafted yourself, designed to be both sturdy and comfortable.

SEW A LEATHER BACKPACK

Create an attractive leather backpack that will be both practical and durable.

BOW MAKING AND ARCHERY

Learn the timeless craft of building your own longbow, then take it to the field for an afternoon of “instinctive” shooting practice.

Peter Yencken

Peter started as a bowyer while working for Tom Brown's Tracking and Wilderness Survival School.  He has taught the art of making bows to 2000+ people of all ages. He also makes and teaches knife (of different size and shapes) making; backpack basket making; felt boot making; as well as leather bag, hat and shoe making. Peter has been on a lifelong search for skills that help people reclaim a feeling of self reliance while also providing a focal point for observing oneself more deeply. He currently lives in Ticksville (a.k.a. Charlottesville, VA) and learns much wisdom from his daughter.