Main Discussion Area > Flintknapping

Beginner, have a few questions.

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JoJoDapyro:
I know how sharp these minerals can be, but we tend to overlook things we "Know". I cut myself 3 times just sorting the Obsidian today, even before I bought it. I ended up getting a 5 pound chunk of Black Obsidian and a 5 pound chunk of Mahogany. Is there a designated place that you knap to avoid tiny glass shards being everywhere? How do you handle cleanup? The previous owner of my home had a metal shop in the garage, even after scrubbing down the whole place, and living here over a year I still end up with metal slivers in my feet. I suppose I'll have to break down and wear shoes while working this stuff. Any tips will be greatly appreciated. Thanks

Tower:
Wear shoes, jeans , maybe some gloves& glasses.    That stuff cuts me& I've been knapping for years.  Blood is the price  we all pay to play.   You can Knap on a concrete floor. It sweeps up pretty good.  It's best to do it outside away from everything else.   Find a little spot & make it your own.   

JoJoDapyro:
I really just need to get my behind in gear and get my shop set up in the attic. 1100 square feet of freedom. The problem is that my AC is in the garage.  >:D

iowabow:
Go buy a painters canvas drop cloth. Spread the canvas on the floor and place a stool at one corner. Let the chips and blood fall on the canvas. When you finish knapping just gather each corner and transport to dump pile.

TRACY:
Starting out, good info already. Protect your eyes and skin until you get comfortable with the process. If you're knapping inside, you really need a fan or some type of ventilation for all airborne pieces that are created. Iowa mentioned canvas drop cloth or even a poly tarp but it will wear fast and get holes.
Bandaids bandaids bandaids!  I prefer to knap in flip flops in the warmer months cause the flakes don't get trapped in the shoes and I simply wiggle them and flakes are gone. I have a pit where I keep my rock and break rock so it's somewhat contained to one spot that the kids and dogs can avoid. I would start out with protective clothing and eye gear until you develop a style that works for you.

Tracy

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