View Full Version : Skill sharing weekend. March 12th, 13th, 14th, 2010
I have provisionally booked Comriecroft for the weekend of the 12th, 13th and 14th March 2010 for a skill sharing workshop.
The hall is being offered for our use at a discount ( I think they like us :D) but I need to confirm by Friday afternoon that we want the hall.
Camping fees will be as per usual, and paid by the individual directly to Comriecroft, but I have agreed to be responsible, up front, for the hall hire.
I need a firm yes from people that they are happy to contribute to the hire of the hall.
Basically are you prepared to pay an extra £5 a day for the use of a warm, well lighted, dry area that we can use late on, work on handcrafts, browse books, swap kit and materials, maybe have a proper sales table ?
If you are up for this one will you please say so on the poll?
I'll leave it open so we can see who's going along.
atb,
Toddy
dont have any skills to share but i will b up for this depending on a babysitter. i'll keep an eye & comit asap.
cheers gaz.
Bet you have :D
It's more a bring stuff along, happy to show, tell, ask, watch, learn, work, try, play with ideas, kind of skill sharing :cool:
cheers,
M
sounds good to me, count me in, but can you guarantee it wont be minus 8 temp this time mary......goodjob
Colin....
:D
You managed fine :cool:
Me ? I chickened out, I *know* my car won't get me up through that :sigh:
cheers,
M
sounds good toddy, hope you get a good response, i'll be doin my best to make it, my sons just too young to bring along so i'll be nice to granny!!
stuart f
13-01-2010, 21:50
Hi Mary,i will fully commit,i am working this weekend so i will tell the boss that i need those dates off. Thanks for going ahead and getting this off the ground,as you know i've been keen to get this sort of thing up and running as per our past discusisons goodjob.Are we discussing what things people can offer in way of skill sets yet or am i jumping the gun and being a wee bit premature :rolleyes:
Cheers Stuart.
Excellent :D
Go for it lad :cool:
I'll bring along wool and do bushshirt basics if folks want. Happy to do cordages too. If folks have a shrunken jumper bring it along and we'll turn it into something useful.
cheers,
M
Shameless bump :D
Never mind the weather, the dates are over a month away.
cheers,
M
Hi Mary,
Happy New Year. We talked about this at a wee meet up in December, sounds good but I will need to check with my better half.
Cheers
JFW
Barn Owl
14-01-2010, 15:28
I will try my best to come.
Can't confirm just yet.
screwball
14-01-2010, 16:08
I am early shift that weekend and know for sure that the friday is out of the question .But I would be up for the rest of the weekend(if I can get the time ) and the extra £5-00 for the hall sound like a great idea
The staff at Comriecroft are very helpful :D I asked for those dates so that we had a kind of framework, but I know most folks will be at work or have family commitments to work around.
I reckoned that on those dates though we could be pretty sure someone would be around, but if you can only manage part of the time, or want to extend your time there, I can't see there being any problems :)
cheers,
M
scottisha5
14-01-2010, 17:45
Hi,
Cant commit yet but a reasonable bet Ill make it. Is it a hammock or ground dweller site?
atb
John
stuart f
14-01-2010, 17:57
Hi,
Cant commit yet but a reasonable bet Ill make it. Is it a hammock or ground dweller site?
atb
John
Hi John,its both.Also check this out,http://www.bushcraftuk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=35368&page=5
theres pics half way down,try not to dwell on Russ's nice wee cut :D
Cheers Stuart.
scottisha5
14-01-2010, 18:10
Thanks Stuart, how thw hell did he manage the cut? Looks a nice place.
atb John
He said that he started the swing and then changed his mind, but instead of stopping it he let it go down without any force behind it. The weight of the axe and it's sharpness caused the wound :rolleyes:
A blunt axe would probably have given him a bruise and not much else.
(Russ, if I haven't got that right, feel free to correct me :))
He assures me he won't do it again :approve:
cheers,
Toddy
stuart f
14-01-2010, 18:19
Thanks Stuart, how thw hell did he manage the cut? Looks a nice place.
atb John
It was a native American ritual,dances with axe and the axe won :lmao:
Cheers Stuart.
scottisha5
14-01-2010, 18:23
What ever he did it was a sore one.
Understandable how easy when you think that most of us who own an axe keep it sharp enough to shave with.
Another reason to make sure we all have a well stocked FAK with us.
Ouch
John
stuart f
14-01-2010, 19:07
Anyway,back on topic.I would be willing to demo the handrill method of fire lighting,also making fishing hooks,maybe containers from Hogweed and working with bone and Antler and other bits and bobs,if anyone is interested.
Cheers Stuart.
sounds great Stuart, i will be happy to watch goodjob
Colin
warthog1981
14-01-2010, 20:31
He said that he started the swing and then changed his mind, but instead of stopping it he let it go down without any force behind it. The weight of the axe and it's sharpness caused the wound :rolleyes:
A blunt axe would probably have given him a bruise and not much else.
(Russ, if I haven't got that right, feel free to correct me :))
He assures me he won't do it again :approve:
cheers,
Toddy
Sorry wrong answer :o
What i can remember was swung the axe to spit a large ish round of timber and it split a little and I went to remove the axe from the split to take another swing at it and it freed itself quicker than I thought and I taped myself and got 14 stitches and two months on crutches as a reminder not to do it again :o
And id like to point out that I was in no pain at all with my scratch.
I should hopefully be able to make this one :)
cheers Russ
See, now that makes more sense :D The only saving grace was that you didn't have your strength behind the blow otherwise I reckon you'd be carving something a bit different to a kuksa :eek: :D
"No Pain".....you certainly weren't........don't we know it.........you spent The New Year stoned our of your skull on the good drugs, flat on your back in bed, tended to by pretty nurses :rolleyes: :lol:
I do know that instead of a venison dinner, after visiting you in Perth hospital Trisha and I stopped at the Chinese in Crieff and folks had fish suppers instead for Hogmany's dinner :rolleyes:
cheers,
M
woods_man
14-01-2010, 21:39
Hi, if I can make it, I could do a bowdrill work shop if any one was interested,
Peter..
stuart f
14-01-2010, 21:52
Hi, if I can make it, I could do a bowdrill work shop if any one was interested,
Peter..
Thats great Peter. goodjob
it's looking good for me to attend, yesss! i wont confirm just yet tho till it's definite!!
i would just be a knowledge sponge taking in as much as possible so sounds good stuart F & woods man.
I'll commit to this.
Do you know if they would let us set up an archery target, Mary? Not essential, but could be good if possible.
I'll ask, shall I ? :D
Strikes me it'd be a good time for it. I suppose it depends on where; mountain bikers aren't really viable targets :rolleyes: :D
cheers,
M
Can someone tell me what length of clear distance we need for safe archery, please ?
Before I phone and confirm the booking and ask about longbows and the like :D
cheers,
Mary
scrogger
15-01-2010, 15:37
I might make this too. Will speak to Swmbo later. No idea on archery distance sorry toddy. Shame there are no French knights to ask! lol
:D excellent :cool:
Okay, all those into hurtling bits of wood powered by muscle and cat gut through the air.......Comriecroft said *Yes* :D
I've booked us for the Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Please pay for your camping fees directly to Comriecroft. I'll deal with the hall fees and you'll all be really nice to me and pay your share when we get there :) At this rate of folks coming it'll be under a fiver a day, but maybe budget for that to be sure. I've asked from Friday night through to Sunday evening, so at most it'll be £10 and I really doubt it'll be that much.
On offer, so far
Fire by friction, hand drill and bow drill :)
Cordages
Bone and Antler working
Fish hooks, etc.,
Containers from Hogweed,
diy bush shirts
Books for a looksee, read.
Usual barter table
Sales table
Archery
Anyone else up for bringing stuff along to show, explain and teach ?
cheers,
M
Can someone tell me what length of clear distance we need for safe archery, please ?
Before I phone and confirm the booking and ask about longbows and the like :D
cheers,
Mary
If folks are learning, 15 to 20 yards between target and archer is fine. Behind the target its best if there is rising ground to stop any arrows. An arrow aimed up in the air might well go 400 yards or more, but aimed slightly downwards at a target 100 yards would be adequate on totally flat ground. Rising ground is much better though, and if you have this no particular distance is needed.
My target butt is 1metre square and it's quite hard to miss it at 20 yards, but we would need to think about the backstop.
Or you can rig up heavy blankets or netting suspended behind the target. Some archery is done indoors this way.
warthog1981
15-01-2010, 17:28
I could possibly do a little on rabbit trapping ? :)
Gailainne
15-01-2010, 17:47
I'd like to pop along for this, I'll bring some bits and pieces along as well.
Maybe even some wool cloth :o :pokenest:
Stephen
Brilliant :D
Can I use you as my example then ? At any rate it would get a fair bit done on yours :cool:
Russ that would be excellent :D
cheers,
M
Hi all, newish member here.
I'm meeting up with Locum76 soon who's in my area for a brew.
Before I commit or even ask if I can attend the "skills sharing weekend", I'll let him weigh me up on your behalf.
As ex army and a civvy chef, bad language and cooking are all I can bring to the meet really... no only kidding.
It looks like a good weekend but as I said, as a newbie, I'll let Locum76 make up his mind.
Cheers
Liam
Barn Owl
15-01-2010, 18:39
Hi all, newish member here.
I'm meeting up with Locum76 soon who's in my area for a brew.
Before I commit or even ask if I can attend the "skills sharing weekend", I'll let him weigh me up on your behalf.
As ex army and a civvy chef, bad language and cooking are all I can bring to the meet really... no only kidding.
It looks like a good weekend but as I said, as a newbie, I'll let Locum76 make up his mind.
Cheers
Liam
You don't need to ask Liam,if you want to come,ye come..simples:D
You don't need to ask Liam,if you want to come,ye come..simples:D
Fantastic!! :lmao::D
Count me in.
I like your signature.
scottforsythe1
15-01-2010, 19:59
transport for meet i am looking for a lift for the meet at comriecroft in march from greenock willing to pay for fuel if anyone can help please let me know thanks scott forsythe1:pokenest:
I'm looking into this at the moment but as I'm working in Edinburgh the week following I should be able to make it.
What would you like me to share?
scottforsythe, I hope somebody coming from the west can help out, but if not, I could possibly give you a lift from Dunblane or Gleneagles station, if you can get that far. I live pretty close to Comriecroft.
Gary, I'm sure other folks will have ideas, but as for me, I will be picking your brains on photography, runes and general Viking lore.
For my part I'll probably just muck in. I could run the suturing tutorial. Or I could take the canoe and skill-share on Loch Earn (only 7 miles away). If anyone wants wild food, I'm sure I could shoot some rabbits for the meet.
I'll also bring my library. I've got a lot of books on bushcraft, wilderness philosophy, etc.
Barn Owl
15-01-2010, 23:19
transport for meet i am looking for a lift for the meet at comriecroft in march from greenock willing to pay for fuel if anyone can help please let me know thanks scott forsythe1:pokenest:
I think i'll be going.
If so I could pick you up at Glasgow Central say?
If you get another firm offer,take it Scott.
I can't confirm yet.
Tom.
scottforsythe1
16-01-2010, 14:05
can you ad my name and my dad wants to go if that is ok we will pay 5pounds each for the hire of the hall i have got a lift to the meet thanks scott forsythe
Excellent :D
We'll see you there :cool:
Wayland it would be really good to have you visit too :) It's a lovely bit of the world, the site staff are really helpful and they've got the best loo/showers/hot water for camping set up I've seen yet :approve:
If anyone is wanting to come but not sure if they or their kit is suitable for the weather, Comriecroft also has katas and bunkrooms for hire.
In Summer the campsite is busy, but at this time of year it's quiet enough to suit us down to the ground :cool:
cheers,
M
Native Nathan
16-01-2010, 15:36
im interested in joining you guys,
But not confirmed got to find a way to get there,
Wife wants the car that weekend
Hi Mary,
Count me in please (including contribution for the hall) - definately be there for the sat and sun, hopefully the fri eve as well. Really appreciate you getting this organised!
Looking forward to it and catching up with you all again.
Cheers,
Craig.
Graham_S
16-01-2010, 16:22
Its our (Katy and I) favourite campsite.
Friendly people, wonderful surroundings.
Sadly, This weekend is a couple of weeks after I head back to Saudi.
Awww..........we'll miss you :sigh: Sorry Graham, this was the first weekend that the hall, etc was free.
cheers,
M
I'm looking into this at the moment but as I'm working in Edinburgh the week following I should be able to make it.
Wayland, give me a shout if you need somewhere to stay for the week you are in Edinburgh. I'm about ten miles West of it and there's room at my home.
A lot easier than having to fork out for B&B or a hotel.
atb
Liam
i can comit now but unsure how to change my poll entry.....help!!
Anyway directions via public transport would b great as my other half needs the car that weekend also (know how ye feel native nathan). Who do i contact to book, ill b there friday afternoon till early sunday so let me no what i owe u for this toddy please, ta!!
Gaz!
Sort it all out when you get there :D I think camping is £6 per person per night, but I'll check.
:) Loads of good space for tents, miles of trees for hammocks, lots of quiet out of the way places for bivvying. Katas with wood fired stoves and a bunk house if needed too.
It's worth every penny for those roasting hot showers, heated loo block, and decent wash up water and sinks........if you're going to a campsite might as well be a good one :approve: iimmc
Bound to be someone who'll give you a lift at least part of the way, but I can get you the public transport information from the site office.
cheers,
M
humblebumble
16-01-2010, 20:54
not been on for a while
this sounds good though, i reckon i'm up for it. where exactly is comriecroft? i'm in Gala, as you're no doubt aware. I'd like to bring a friend or two along as well, i reckon they'd be well into it. she loves her sewing craft and he's big into his manly-in-the-woods stuff.
what's the craic with dogs and that?
also, as you know i can offer Tablet Weaving and Knotted Pile weaving if i can get hold of the wool
what am i talking about? of course i can get hold of the wool, silly. well, i might have to buy some more pile wool, cos they don't have any of that up at college, but the rest of it's not a problem i reckon
it's not a definite like, but provisionally, yeah, maybe, we'll see kinda thing. it depends on dogs really. we come with a dog each, so i reckon it's an issue perhaps
-andrew
MagiKelly
16-01-2010, 22:23
I can't commit at the moment but if available I will come. Can bring some archery stuff with me and perhaps some leather working stuff if I can make it.
Just seen this (not sure how missed it). My 12 yr old son and I would be very keen to come so please count us in for the weekend and share of fees etc.
14 yr old daughter as well may be as she would love to meet Toddy again.
Count me in for the archery as well.
Don't think I know enough about anything to be able to share any skills, but would be delighted to learn from others.
I will bring my parachute in case the usual parachute is not available.
NS
On second thoughts, I know a lot about camping stoves ! (not exactly bushcraft, but there is a time when the right stove is very important). I could bring a few along for people to look at if they like
NS
Stuart69
17-01-2010, 20:25
Count me in as a definite too. More than happy to help out with the hall costs.
Gazmc2 if you'd like a lift up give me a shout, will be going Friday to Sunday too and taking my 4x4 so plenty of room.
cheers stuart69 very generous, i'll probly take you up on that offer tho i'm still haggling with the missus about getting the car, i'll let you know nearer the time if i have been successful or not & we can sort out time/place etc.
thanks again!!
Stuart69
18-01-2010, 08:46
No worries mate :) the seat's there if you need it.
That goes for anyone else around Glasgow that needs the transport. I'm in the East-end.
Wayland, give me a shout if you need somewhere to stay for the week you are in Edinburgh. I'm about ten miles West of it and there's room at my home.
A lot easier than having to fork out for B&B or a hotel.
atb
Liam
Thanks for that kind offer but the School is putting me up in a hotel.
I'll probably do a small photo trip and sleep in the van or wild camp where possible in between.
Chainsaw
18-01-2010, 19:54
Can't commit 100% either but can bring archery stuff too (got some debris netting which is good for a backstop) Not got much else, maybe my edgepro for some serious sharpening action :rolleyes:
Cheers,
Alan
stuart f
20-01-2010, 23:06
On offer, so far
Fire by friction, hand drill and bow drill
Cordages
Bone and Antler working
Fish hooks, etc.,
Containers from Hogweed,
diy bush shirts
Books for a looksee, read.
Usual barter table
Sales table
Archery
Tension trays :D
Trapping, legalities, suitable equipment, methods and the beasts intended
List amended.
Sorry Mary i could'nt resist.
Cheers Stuart.
Russ has suggested he might do trapping, legalities, suitable equipment, methods and the beasts intended, if folks show any interest :cool:
cheers,
M
stuart f
20-01-2010, 23:17
Russ has suggested he might do trapping, legalities, suitable equipment, methods and the beasts intended, if folks show any interest :cool:
cheers,
M
He's been added to the ever growing list :lmao:
Thanks Stuart :)
We're never all going to get to do it all :rolleyes:
Ach, well, it'll be fun trying anyway :D
cheers,
M
sounds interesting, but I'm on call that week. Why do all my call out weeks clash with stuff I want to do, never when I've got nothing potentially planned?
If someone will swap with me - but it might be a bit last minute. If I/we can make it I could cut some willow or lime. Also got plenty of thick birch bark.
We haven't seen you in ages, see how it goes, but you know you're very welcome in the company :D
Cheers,
M
if there is anything planned for later in the year I'll try an pre-book it off to avoid call out.
does anyone know if there's a place where we can do a spot of fishing?? i noticed a couple of bodies of water on google maps but not sure if we would get access.
i did try to call comriecroft to book & ask but got the ansafone, will try again later as i always seem to lose the simple ability to communicate when i am confronted with answer machines.....long pauses, ermmm & hang up quickly is usually the outcome!!
looks like I'll have to give it a miss - must learn to check the calender. If I can get out of call out at work I've got a MRT practice with the Cave Diving Group on the Sunday.
does anyone know if there's a place where we can do a spot of fishing?? i noticed a couple of bodies of water on google maps but not sure if we would get access.
i did try to call comriecroft to book & ask but got the ansafone, will try again later as i always seem to lose the simple ability to communicate when i am confronted with answer machines.....long pauses, ermmm & hang up quickly is usually the outcome!!
Loch Earn is 5 or 6 miles away, fishing very popular there with permit and easy bank-side access or you can hire a boat. River Earn (very close) has plenty of fishing too.
NS
Its our (Katy and I) favourite campsite.
Friendly people, wonderful surroundings.
Sadly, This weekend is a couple of weeks after I head back to Saudi.
I've agreed to go there for a weekend in February (brrrrr!) instead, so it must be love!! ;)
cheers NS, not too far so will prob look into it. Whats the going rate for a perit there then?
cheers NS, not too far so will prob look into it. Whats the going rate for a perit there then?
Fishing costs £9. These tickets are widely available at shops, post offices, hotels and caravan parks in St Fillans and Lochearnhead. Fishing is for brown trout, rainbow trout, pike and arctic char. During the day you can fish the river section down to the hydro dam, where you have the chance of catching river rainbows. As far as i know the only place in Scotland where this can be done. If you catch a char take a photo, because no one will believe you.
Wahey! Managed to get a pass for the weekend, so count me in!!
thanks gsgnine, i will probly attempt to catch some for dinner...mmmm but dont count on it so better take somethin else incase!!
Cheers
Gaz!
Just picking up on an earlier post from Doc, both he and I (and a few of the other attendees - Blutack?) are into open canoeing and could run taster sessions on Loch Earn or the River Earn during the weekend if there is interest. I know a lot of BCUKers think about getting into canoeing as a way of getting to remote places. If this is of interest to folks then I will have my boat and gear along and can drone on endlessly about what boat to get to start with / what paddle / Canadian wilderness trips etc etc
NS
Sounds good :D
We could use Comriecroft as a hub and meet up when the light fails.
I would take it as a great kindness if the fishermen would take care; I'm allergic to fish.
I'll take the anti histamines but I'd really, really prefer not to end up choked with hayfevery runny nose, covered with itchy lumps and finding my dinner reappearing :sigh:
All I'm asking is don't leave fishy bits around where I'm likely to touch them, or handle my cookpots and the like with fishy hands. Thank you :D
If Wayland is in the company, please don't add onions or garlic to any foods that are offered to him.
Anyone else have a problem with any communal cooking ?
cheers,
Mary
I'm definately up for this one, work permitting as usual, I will confirm nearer the date Mary. I'll try and bring some more freebies and maybe do a wee bit of first aid for any folks interested.
Re fishing, unfortunately the Loch Earn fishing season doesn't start till March 15th!!!
In practice, the loch doesn't fish well early season anyway.
listenclear
24-01-2010, 18:33
Im in :lmao: Complete with Graham and my dad.
Cannae wait. :red:
Paul
listenclear
24-01-2010, 18:36
Just trying to get an idea of price for everyone.
Will the whole thing start on fri and finish sunday meaning £15 each for hall hire?
Cheers
Brilliant :D
It'll work out at just two days hire.........and I reckon there's going to be more than enough of us so the price each should drop as well.
Budget on the fiver a day at most just in case, but if everyone manages along it's more likely a fiver for the weekend.
Camping fees directly to Comriecroft though.
cheers,
M
I'm up for this one , Mary can i bring my son along he love's the great outdoors ...
I'm up for this one , Mary can i bring my son along he love's the great outdoors ...
Course you can :D..........safe near the fire, other folks tools and sharps and guylines, and in bed at a reasonable enough hour that adult conversation around the campfire isn't awkward, and everyone's happy to have them along :cool:
cheers,
M
listenclear
24-01-2010, 21:32
Thats great Mary, thanks!
Thanks for arranging this too!!!
''I would take it as a great kindness if the fishermen would take care; I'm allergic to fish.''
i dont mind catch & release fishing but to be honest theres plenty of other things on offer, i know already that i can fish but i havent even tried anything else....think i'll leave the rod at home & have a shot at somethin new although i dont even think i'll have time to squeeze everything in.
i'll be like a wean in a sweetie shop with all these new things to learn. also it'll be good to have a go at things with someone there to ask if i'm doing it rite.
i'll be like a wean in a sweetie shop with all these new things to learn. also it'll be good to have a go at things with someone there to ask if i'm doing it rite.
Yep, me too!!
The only thing I can bring to the party are chef skills really.
If it's smoking - it's cooking.
If it's black - it's ready.
Stuart69
25-01-2010, 11:08
I was thinking about taking a rod but I'm not going to now that I know others have issues with fish.
As Gazmc2 said, there's going to be so much else to learn and do I probably wouldn't have time anyway. Really looking forward to the meet :D
Graham_S
25-01-2010, 12:54
I've agreed to go there for a weekend in February (brrrrr!) instead, so it must be love!! ;)
We've hired a Kata.
Katy will be kept warm by sheepskins, a log burning stove, and lots of Tea.
Graham will be kept warm chopping and splitting wood for the stove and carrying water to make the tea ;)
We believe you :D
Folks we owe Graham and Katy for finding this site for us..........and Katy don't recommend many :)
Fishing; you are all being incredibly kind :You_Rock_ but seriously don't not do it just because of me.
I've managed with this all my life. It's not anaphylactic shock stuff, it's just hayfever and hives and nausea. The anti histamines are a permanent prescription, it's just if folks are aware that I have an issue, with a little bit of care, it saves any bother.
My doctor has the same allergy but slightly more severely. He loves fish, so he eats it with an epi pen beside him :eek: :rolleyes:
cheers,
Mary
Stuart69
25-01-2010, 14:53
Nah, I better leave my rod at home Mary.
After a light refreshment I might get tempted to slip one into you sleeping bag when you weren't looking :nana: and sit back wth the :lurk:
It's my first meet with you all, I'll be on my best behaviour :angel: (this time :p)
warthog1981
25-01-2010, 18:19
Ive got good news or bad news depending on how you look at it :o
I'm coming to the meet up as I confirmed it with my boss :)
cheers Russ
My son Chris has the same allergies as Toddy to fish, but only salmon and trout, funnily enough. Same symptoms.
NS
Well, at least we know he'll be able to eat anything I cook :D
The only other folks I know who have this allergic reaction to fish are a young man from the North East, his family own fishing boats and he had to go and be a slaughterman instead :( and one of the Viking re-enactors.
It's usually the hidden stuff that catches me out, Worcester sauce has anchovies in it :rolleyes: and much though I love Chinese food, oh it don't like me :yuck:
Russ, that's excellent :D
It really is pulling together now :cool:
cheers,
M
stuart f
26-01-2010, 11:28
Well just to clarify,i am getting the time off work so its a definite yes i will be there.
Okay who groaned at the back,come on,who was it!!!!!!!!!!
And don't say it was someone breaking wind either,i definitely heard an audible groan from the back of the forum....:lmao:
Cheers Stuart.:stretcher:
Big Geordie
26-01-2010, 14:50
At last a date I can do!! Yippee.
Can hardly wait to see you all.
Lift available from Glasgow if anyone still wants it.
Well done Mary for sorting this.:You_Rock_
G
Rats.... :mad: .... I've got to cancel I'm afraid.
I've just heard that Amanda, who handles all my bookings for me, has taken a five day booking that straddles that weekend.
It's good money I suppose but I'm still annoyed I'm going to miss the meet.
Barn Owl
27-01-2010, 16:58
Well just to clarify,i am getting the time off work so its a definite yes i will be there.
Okay who groaned at the back,come on,who was it!!!!!!!!!!
And don't say it was someone breaking wind either,i definitely heard an audible groan from the back of the forum....:lmao:
Cheers Stuart.:stretcher:
It wis my kidneys....again..:lmao:
I should be there,swmbo is taking hols the weekend before.
So looking good.
Wayland - i know that feeling
I'd like to come along for FRiday-Sunday am, happy to contribute to the hall...
how cold are we expectin it to b on this wee shin-dig? I have a hammock, 3 season sleeping bag & a tarp........ Is this sufficient?? Are we bringing food for ourselves or are we contributing to a group feast?? May be a bit early to be discussin this but im really lookin forward to it & talkin bout it keeps the anticipation(if thats how its spelled) going!
Don't know about the temperature but I'd bring extra just in case. It's Perthshire, it can be bitterly cold at times. We'll hope it's a warm early Spring though :D
Food..........how about I bring along the *huge* stockpots, and since I still have the venison ribs and hough that I was intending to make into stew at the New Year meet that didn't happen, that makes one big pot of stew to be going on with. I'm not offering to feed everybody to the full but if that's there then there'll be some for all but we'd need to make rice, couscous, or naan or even just buttered rolls to fill it out.
I also got one of the smoked ham joints in Tesco just as they did a final reduce and it's in the freezer. I could start that as the base for an ongoing soup pot ? Lentil ? a la Graham_S ? It means there's hot food, suitable for a lunch for folks, again it would need filling out with something though.
Doc has suggested rabbits too.
Happy to bring the big girdle along and do the cheese scones, tattie scones and oatcakes ............not *all* of them, this Meet is getting kind of big, but no objections to showing how and letting folks get on with it for themselves.
Lots of good cooks in the company though, anybody else got suggestions ?
Oh, and my friendly neighbourhood poacher (he who was a butcher to trade) has been making Lorne sausage........from venison :rolleyes: :D
I could see if he'd make up a couple of 5lb blocks of the square slice ?
It's not hung venison so it's not gamey. HWMBLT who ate an entire block by himself for breakfasts for a couple of weeks said it tasted like good steak. :)
I'll see what sort of price he'd take for them, shall I ?
cheers,
M
sounds superb toddy, much more grand than i was expectin but great.... Never tried venison so the sausage sounds appealin, would b more than happy to contribute to any food costs etc.
Hi there Mary, I've been watching this thread with interest and it just sounds better and better. I have also managed to get a pass for these dates and would like to join in with you all.
I will pay towards the hall hire and bring another canoe to play with. Heading up from East Lothian and have space in the car if anyone is stuck en route. I'll see what I can get for the pot also. If there is any of the venison lorne sausage for grabs I'll cough up for some.
'I'm getting all excited'
Dave
Hello Bing, and welcome to the forum :D......and the meet up :cool:
cheers,
M
Barn Owl
30-01-2010, 00:59
how cold are we expectin it to b on this wee shin-dig? I have a hammock, 3 season sleeping bag & a tarp........ Is this sufficient?? Are we bringing food for ourselves or are we contributing to a group feast?? May be a bit early to be discussin this but im really lookin forward to it & talkin bout it keeps the anticipation(if thats how its spelled) going!
Have you got a mat or blanket to put below you,it keeps the draught from leeching heat from beneath just as if you were on the ground.
Hi there Mary, I've been watching this thread with interest and it just sounds better and better. I have also managed to get a pass for these dates and would like to join in with you all.
I will pay towards the hall hire and bring another canoe to play with. Heading up from East Lothian and have space in the car if anyone is stuck en route. I'll see what I can get for the pot also. If there is any of the venison lorne sausage for grabs I'll cough up for some.
'I'm getting all excited'
Dave
Dave, if you're heading there by canoe yer on yer own.
If you're crossing the Forth Road Bridge any chance of a lift? I live 200 yards to the West from it.
I'm currently unemplo.. resting between Pantomimes... but will pay for petrol and contribute a good blether (My late Gran lived in Fisherrrow..).
Liam
:)
no barn owl i dont have a blanket per say, would any old blanket do or should i be looking at purchasing a specific type? i have read on here about underblankets & im guessing they are made for the job but just wondering what other options are available.
rancid badger
30-01-2010, 11:37
is there any water, suitable for canoeing then?
R.B.
stuart f
30-01-2010, 12:40
no barn owl i dont have a blanket per say, would any old blanket do or should i be looking at purchasing a specific type? i have read on here about underblankets & im guessing they are made for the job but just wondering what other options are available.
Hi Gaz,if you are using a hammock for the meet all you really need is a cheap roll mat or you could invest in a self inflating mat,Highlander do them for about 20 quid ish.I've had a bit of a search and found this http://www.winfieldsmegastore.com/Highlander-Self-Inflating-Thermalite-Mat-p-SM028-c-CAMOFLOUGE.html . I use their 3/4 length mat myself for ground dwelling.Failing that i have got one of the original underblankets from the first group buy that Ian(Wanderinstar) did,i could let you have a lone of it for the meet,to try one out.I will be using my Tipi for the meet,so the offers there.
Of course i would show you how to rig it up,because it goes on the outside of the hammock unlike a sleep mat which will be inside the hammock with you.
is there any water, suitable for canoeing then?
R.B.
Hi R.B. Loch Earn is about 6 miles up the road from the campsite if thats any good to you.
Cheers Stuart.
Loch will be free of bankside "fishing parties" so will be pleasantly quiet once you get up past the caravan park. There are some nice put-in places either by the dam at the Comrie end or further up off the south side road. Running the Earn from Comrie to Crieff is also an excellent paddle
NS
Cant believe ive not seen this thread until now, ill ask the boss for that Friday off when i go in on Monday.
I might think about turning up on the Thursday afternoon/evening.
I think the fishing season starts on the 15th of march though, for those considering it.
Stoo.
stuart f
30-01-2010, 15:47
Cant believe ive not seen this thread until now, ill ask the boss for that Friday off when i go in on Monday.
I might think about turning up on the Thursday afternoon/evening.
I think the fishing season starts on the 15th of march though, for those considering it.
Stoo.
Aye i wondered where you had went Stoo :)
cheers stuart f, i'll prob take u up on that offer, try before ye buy 'n' all that!! I had a look at underblankets & they're no cheap!! That mat looks good tho ta for the link. Obviously more to hammocking than i thought.
Thanks again
Gaz!
johnnytheboy
31-01-2010, 18:30
The other end of Loch Earn is the Balvaig which would be allot more interesting than Loch Earn.
http://www.canoekayak.co.uk/userfiles/file/04Balquhidder.pdf
is there any water, suitable for canoeing then?
R.B.
*pokes head over the fence*
Long time no see - been getting caught up with other things that have meant that while the bushcraft has still been getting a lookin, I've not had the time to come here and spraff about it.
However, I would really like to come to this weekend... I'm waiting to hear if other potential commitments I have for that weekend follow through, but if I'm free, I'll be coming!
Toddy
Just checking a few logistics -do we need to book a campspot with Comrie Croft or do we just turn up ?
Thanks
NS
It's kind of a mix tbh. I would advise that if you are certain that you are coming that you contact them and book. However, Comriecroft, if it's quiet, have no problems with folks turning up at the last moment. A little later in the season and they can't guarantee a pitch since it fills up pretty fast though.
It would be appreciated if folks would mention that it's a booking for the bushcraft weekend; they like us and I'd like them to have some idea of our numbers, especially since they give us really good rates for the use of the hall, etc.,
I know that not everyone is happy camping at this time of year, they do have a bunkhouse and it is sometimes possible to book an entire room for family or friends. Contact has to be made directly with the site for this though.
Does that help ?
cheers,
M
Ive booked the time of work and emailed comriecroft (info@comriecroft.com) to ask that i get a spot in the camping field for Friday - Sunday :)
Thanks for the info Toddy. I've just emailed them too
NS
Stuart69
02-02-2010, 16:19
Just got a reply to my email from Comrie and have a spot booked Friday to Sunday :)
I would take it as a great kindness if the fishermen would take care; I'm allergic to fish.
You should come fishing with me then. This will virtually guarantee no piscine contact whatsoever, for the duration of the weekend! ;-)
'i know already that i can fish but i havent even tried anything else....
Yeah, I'm thinking that as well, and the same goes for canoeing. However, since it's a skill sharing weekend, I'll bring my canoe and a spare paddle / lifejacket. If there are a few of us with boats, we should be able to manage a wee half day on Loch Earn at least, as it's only just down the road.
Cheers!!
scottforsythe1
03-02-2010, 09:30
Just got a reply to my email from Comrie and have a pitch booked for 2 tents Friday to Sunday:camping::fishing:
stuart f
03-02-2010, 10:42
Ditto,i got my confirmation from Comrie.
Cheers Stuart.
windward
03-02-2010, 13:46
Hi all,
Been holding back with this meet as I wasn't sure if I could manage but all good so booked my place yesterday for a pitch in the filed from Fri to Sunday. Will probably head up for lunch time.
Got quite a large salmon in the freezer so can bring that along. Look forward to catching up with everyone.
Vince
Barn Owl
04-02-2010, 10:28
That's me booked in for a woodland pitch.:D
My snoring will keep the bears away.
So be thankful that I do....:lmao:
woods_man
04-02-2010, 17:59
That's me booked!
Peter..
did you guys book over the phone or on-line? I just phoned but got no answer, if i book on-line how would i notify them who im with?
Barn Owl
04-02-2010, 18:54
did you guys book over the phone or on-line? I just phoned but got no answer, if i book on-line how would i notify them who im with?
I just sent an email to info@comriecroft.com stating I was attending the bushcrafters weekend and that I was with bcuk.
Tom.
I booked over the phone, and told them the group I was coming with...
cheers, i'll just give them a bell tomorrow & get it booked then.
sounds like its shapeing up to be a top weekend :)
woodland pitch now ''has my name on it''....i'll be checking when i get there!!
sc_steve
06-02-2010, 10:06
Will be able to come along for the day (baby due around then so won't be able to stay over night) and don't mind contributing to the hall fees :)
Still warming up after camping at Comrie last weekend :)
is it worth having a bring and buy? i was about to attempt a spring clean out of kit and might be worth selling/swapping some gear that we all collect :)
stuart f
08-02-2010, 21:12
Hi Stoo,see below.
is it worth having a bring and buy? i was about to attempt a spring clean out of kit and might be worth selling/swapping some gear that we all collect :)
On offer, so far
Fire by friction, hand drill and bow drill
Cordages
Bone and Antler working
Fish hooks, etc.,
Containers from Hogweed,
diy bush shirts
Books for a looksee, read.
Usual barter table
Sales table
Archery
Tension trays
Trapping, legalities, suitable equipment, methods and the beasts intended
Cheers Stuart.
ooopss thanks for pointing out to me :)
Actually, come to think of it, how do we want to organise the sales table stuff ? :dunno:
I could bring a big sheet of labels and the owner puts their name and a price on it ??
Or do we just do the sales table stuff for an hour or so ? Once, twice ?? a day ??
We don't usually have this much dry space.
Typha described a trade blanket kind of bartering / sales he saw in Arizona at the Wintercount.......I'm sure we could find a blanket :D
cheers,
Mary
stuart f
08-02-2010, 22:14
Actually, come to think of it, how do we want to organise the sales table stuff ? :dunno:
I could bring a big sheet of labels and the owner puts their name and a price on it ??
Or do we just do the sales table stuff for an hour or so ? Once, twice ?? a day ??
We don't usually have this much dry space.
Typha described a trade blanket kind of bartering / sales he saw in Arizona at the Wintercount.......I'm sure we could find a blanket :D
cheers,
Mary
Hi Mary,why don,t we just do like we used to at Achray,we could set up 2 areas one for barter and one for selling,we could leave them out all day Saturday,and if people label their items then people can make inquiries with the owners about dosh or goods traded.
I know some might have reservations about leaving stuff lying about all day,if they have,maybe they could leave a list of what they have on offer on either table so folks could have a look,and then they could search out the owner and take it from there.:dunno:
Just a thought.
Cheers Stuart.
Sounds fine to me :)
atb,
M
Hi Toddy will there be room for another 3 people ? I have managed to persuade my work collegue that it would be a good experience for the kid we are working with so I get paid to play. This will be my first meet since joining the forum so looking forward to meeting more like minded people.
Back to Basics bushcraft & survival
warthog1981
10-02-2010, 17:58
Ive booked my pitch now to :D
Really looking forward to it :)
Cheers Russ
2 tickets to Calcutta cup turned down !
NS
Oh, now, that's above and beyond :notworthy: :D
Roy1 pm sent.
cheers,
Toddy
That match always gets me nervous / upset anyway. Best place to be is in a tent / by a fire away from radio and TV !
NS
warthog1981
13-02-2010, 19:19
Just a thought if anyone's got an old axe or billhook that they'd like the edge put back on or the bevels thinned down bring it along and i,ll show you how :)
cheers Russ
Big Geordie
13-02-2010, 19:38
Just e mailed them. Hope they have some trees left!
Looking forward to seeing you lot. What is the current recommended tipple?
Is it stag's breath/ dog's breath or whatever it was called?:lmao:
G
Just a thought if anyone's got an old axe or billhook that they'd like the edge put back on or the bevels thinned down bring it along and i,ll show you how :)
cheers Russ
I might take you up on that if I may?
I've an old lock knife that a pal borrowed a while back, just got it back and the edge is as dull as the spine.
Aw the best neebs
Liam
I reckon i might just be up for a day visit on this meet. I might stay a night at a push...
warthog1981
14-02-2010, 18:47
Sure no worries :)
If anyone's got a cutlery drainer and they would like a fuel hole cut in it I'm sure i could do that to :)
cheers Russ
i would also be greatful for a few tips on sharpening russ, i've a new axe which is blunt. Looks like it'll be a busy weekend eh!
Cheers!!
Gary!
warthog1981
14-02-2010, 18:52
No worries :)
It should be a grand weekend :D
Cheers Russ
Okay :D
All confirmed and they're happy to know we're coming along :approve:
I've booked my own camp spot as well :D
http://www.comriecroft.com/camping.html
For those who have family who'd prefer to sleep warm, the rooms in the Steading are available at £16 per adult per night. Children half price in a room with the adults.
If you book a room and can't fill all the bunks, then the price is £19.
Several of the rooms are en suite too :cool:
http://www.comriecroft.com/hostel/lodge.html
Comriecroft has a recycling policy for their rubbish, and would appreciate if we did our bit. (I'll take extra bags along).
Firewood is available in bags, but George has to cut that all up and while £5 a bag is pretty fair considering the work involved, there's rather a lot of us.
I have asked and been advised that there's a stack of cut and stacked trees up the hill that we can use if we get them down to the site.
Volunteers and helpers would be appreciated :D
We also need some dead standing poles cut for the chutes.......again, volunteers and helpers would be appreciated :D
If I've missed anything, please ask. In the meantime my kit list is growing :rolleyes: ::o
cheers,
Toddy
warthog1981
18-02-2010, 18:57
I should have the poles cut by the time everyone arrives but I,ll need a hand to bring them down what do we think the Ideal length will be ?
Cheers Russ
I should have the poles cut by the time everyone arrives but I,ll need a hand to bring them down what do we think the Ideal length will be ?
Cheers Russ
when you gonna be there russ ?
Barn Owl
18-02-2010, 20:20
I should have the poles cut by the time everyone arrives but I,ll need a hand to bring them down what do we think the Ideal length will be ?
Cheers Russ
Whos' 'chute?
At least 17' Russ,better with 20-21' I think or more.
We can cut to suit but not add on.
warthog1981
18-02-2010, 20:26
Im thinking about heading up Thurs Morning ish :)
cheers Russ
I'm taking my small one up, but Nonsuch has also offered. The one at Comriecroft won't cover everyone as well as allow for cooking if we're all under it.
I'm reckoning to get mine up so I have space to cook and move around without getting in folks way.
Means loads of space for folks to get near the fires too :campfire: :hatscarf:
How big is the Ayrshire Mafia's one ?, bigger than the one at Comriecroft ?
It occurs to me that they'll store poles so that they're available again.
cheers,
M
Yes I am bringing my parachute as well. It is a single infantry parachute, so not huge, but will still shelter a dozen people, I would say. Will we have the usual firepit as well ? If not I can supply one at a pinch, or a cooking grill on legs, or murrika etc etc. Since I'm just down the road I think I will stick it all in the back of the Landie anyway.
NS
How do you pitch yours ?
I have a firebowl like the one at Comriecroft that I use under my chute. I'm hoping we can get poles cut to get the chute pitched though.
I do have a set of extendable windsock poles that were intended to be used with the chute, but whether they'd work or not, we've never tried. I'm reluctant to use them near a fire tbh. Fine if it's under a working area chute though. That way if it comes down it's not an issue.
cheers,
Toddy
will probably need another fire bowl if there are say a minimum of 17 folks going judging by the poll at the moment, if its a cold night you wont get all huddled roon.
I think ill get there on Friday afternoon at 2 or 3ish, might stop at B&Q and get a new blade for the bow saw no doubt russ will have brought half the Forrest down from the hill by then and be needin sawin :)
Stoo
warthog1981
19-02-2010, 21:14
lol Maybe :)
I,ll make another fire bowl for the meet :) and bring it along :)
Cheers Russ
Yes I am bringing my parachute as well. It is a single infantry parachute, so not huge, but will still shelter a dozen people, I would say. Will we have the usual firepit as well ? If not I can supply one at a pinch, or a cooking grill on legs, or murrika etc etc. Since I'm just down the road I think I will stick it all in the back of the Landie anyway.
NS
nonsuch said he has one and i can bring along the one you gave me to russ, firebowl that is
warthog1981
19-02-2010, 21:22
Ive got one of the full size ones pre cut out at work I just need to cut and drill the legs for it :) and ive a new set of cooking bars to go on top of it to :)
cheers Russ
cool, we will be able to do a drum band during the day when they not all in use ! :D
http://www.scubamom.com/grenadines/youngisland/bandsd1.jpg
i should be there fri afternoon around 2'ish, i dont have much to bring but will gladly help out & contribute in any way i can once i'm there.
not long now!!
A willingness to help out where needed will go a long way :D
Looking forward to this meet up :)
cheers,
Toddy
How do you pitch yours ?
I usually sling a rope over a convenient overhead branch which I suppose is rather restricting on location. If there isn't a convenient overhead branch then I move ! I suppose some kind of pole arrangement would enable us to pitch it where requred.
I wonder with such a large group size whether CC would let us just build a big long-lay fire on the ground, or in a shallow trough, rather than have two smallish firepits ? We could always lift and replace turf. It'll mean a lot less sawing that way.
BTW TBH I would rather someone else could provide the second firepit if required as mine is a rather gucci stainless steel garden item and probably isn't big enough !
NS
What height do you need for your chute Nonsuch ?
No worries on the extra fire bowl, if Russ brings one along that should give us three.
Long fires are good things at times. I suspect that this is one of those wait and see how many folks we end up with on site.
The hall as a teaching/ working/ reading area will help I think.
cheers,
M
woods_man
20-02-2010, 23:02
Hi, do you want me to bring my fire bowl and big pots?
Peter..
Tbh I don't know.
If you can get them in the car without them being a bother though........ :D can't see them going amiss :)
cheers,
M
What height do you need for your chute Nonsuch ?
10-12 ft centre height should do it, but it can always be pitched low - tarp-style if necessary
NS
windward
23-02-2010, 14:20
Just spoken to Andrew at CC asking if I could dig a hole for a hungi...no problem as long as the ground is left as found if turf is removed. There are other place for the pit...one would be just over the wall by the parachute where there is no turf.
I've got quite a big salmon in the freezer I was going to bring and quite fancied cooking it this way. Maybe others would like to cook stuff that way too. Another idea would be to build a mud oven...something I've never done but quite fancied doing though might need a bit guidance if other have.
I'm looking to get there Friday morning.
Vince
windward
23-02-2010, 19:06
Mary, from what I know you've had experience making a mud/clay/earth whatever it is lol, oven...what would I need to make one? Is there enough time to make one or do they need time to dry out first?
If anyone else knows I'd appreciate some feedback.
Vince
The clay ovens at the crannog were built over a basketwork frame and have to be kept sheltered.
The basketry took a day to make. Then the clay was plastered over and the whole thing was allowed to dry out a bit before a small fire was lit and the structure was dried out some more. Then it was burned in. Effectively the willow is burnt to charcoal within the clay but this allows the structure to partially fire and become stable.
I really don't know if it could be done wet.
I do know that I contacted Vacua therm last time I needed pottery clay and I spoke with them about building clay ovens, chimnea and the like. They supply kiln cements and the assorted kiln furntures and clays. They're based in Burnbank, not far across the river from me.
Anyway, I was advised that they had a kiln lining repair cement/clay, that could be used to construct the ovens. Once built there would be no problem using the oven right away, *and* not only would this fire the cement, which is a low temperature ceramicising one, but it would become a weatherproof structure :D
I didn't get a price on this clay though, knowing damned fine I'd want some :rolleyes: :o and HWMBLT already moans about all the stuff I have in the garden :sigh:
They were very helpful people, and if you want to talk with them I'll find the contact details.
cheers,
M
can u turn up for this weekend or do u have to book it , not sure if i'm working yet ... cheers
windward
23-02-2010, 19:39
Thanks for the info Mary...might give it a miss if it's going to take a while to build...think a hungi will do to start with but at some point I would like to build an oven. Might see if Andrew would let me build a permanent one there.
V.
can u turn up for this weekend or do u have to book it , not sure if i'm working yet ... cheers
Give me a heads up if you can, but either way, as Tam says, "If ye want to come. ye come. Simples :D "
Thanks for the info Mary...might give it a miss if it's going to take a while to build...think a hungi will do to start with but at some point I would like to build an oven. Might see if Andrew would let me build a permanent one there.
V.
One could certainly be built over the weekend, but tbh I think since it's a kind of permanent thing that maybe having a discussion this time round with George and maybe finding out about the weatherproof clay/cement might be the best bet. They really need dry footing I'm told, especially in our climate.
cheers,
M
Everything Mac
25-02-2010, 16:50
well I would like to be there uni work and money permitting.
will bring the forge along again if I make it.
then you can all have a go and buy things off me ;) :D
Time to tidy this up and sort out what we would actually manage over the weekend, methinks :D
I have one final suggestion for something new.
How about we try to focus on a different tree each time ? That way anyone who has anything made from, or use for, that tree can bring it along, or make it there, talk, teach, learn, try......
I'm going to suggest that this meet we use the Birch.
It's native, it's common, it's useful :D
What can we do with it ??
I'll bring some fungi that grows on it.
Small basket made from it.
Little pot made from bark.
Dyed wools from it.
Tinder bundles.
Birch burr knife handles.
Anybody else interested in this ? Bring along whatever you have and we'll see what we can do with it.
We could make tar and glue over the weekend. Strip out and prep the fomes, try it for spindle and for hearth, let folks become familiar with it ?
cheers,
Toddy
Great idea although I've never made anything from birch (except a fire !)
NS
Gailainne
01-03-2010, 18:51
Thats a good idea Toddy, I'll dig out my old remedy books see if theres anything in there, and I have a birch burr in the raw (I think) I can bring along.
One thing I learned in Norway was using thin birch branches with buds, to build a wall as part of a game bird trap (snare).
I need to phone Andrew or George and book a spot :rolleyes:
Stephen
Barn Owl
01-03-2010, 21:42
Kuksas are easily carved from birch.
Axe,knife and crook knife et voila...you've sore hands. :lmao:
I'd like to see tar being produced...I've only made a small matchbox in bark...
Hoping to get there on Friday late afternoon
Normally Comriecroft uses raised fires.
Vince said that they said that hangi would be okay so long as the ground was properly restored when we were finished.
If they're fine with it, we could de turf and dig out the soil, get the tins in place and maybe cook over them for lunch ? then let it sit nice and hot for the afternoon. Get it opened out and cooled off that evening and restore everything early the next morning while the dew's on everything. That way the turf should recover fine and we're not hassled.
Or am I trying to over organise ? :o and there's a dead easy way to do it on the firebowls ?? :dunno:
cheers,
Mary
listenclear
02-03-2010, 10:29
Mary, do i need to call Comiecroft to book camping spaces etc?
CHeers in advance. Oh, and can't wait...
listenclear
02-03-2010, 21:05
Whoops, ignore that. Just seen previous messages. Do'h!
I just bought the Time Out camping guide & found Comriecroft. I found the link to this site on theirs.
I plan to get a new tent in the next few weeks & if all goes to plan it looks like it'll be getting a trial run on the 12th.
Does anyone know how big the pitches are at the site?
Thanks
I wish I lived nearer it's sounding amazing!
Michelle we'd love to have you there :D
So far the weather 'looks' cold and dry (pretty please, I'll even offer a libation to the genius loci for it :))
Hello Nelly and welcome to BcUK :D Why not tell us a bit about yourself in the Introductions forum ?
Pitches are random; basically it's a camping field but there are woodland pitches too.
cheers,
Toddy
Anyone want to share an order and one delivery price on willow for basketry ? We could get it delivered to the site and split it there ?
http://www.willowgrowers.co.uk/specialoffers.php
Basically add on a couple of £'s for the delivery per bolt/ bundle.
2kgs is a lot of willow to play with.
cheers,
Toddy
Toddy are withies the same as willows?
I was the Clerical bod for Lothian Play Forum (playschemes etc.) in the early 90's and the workshops they ran used lots of withies.
I've no idea if they are still going nor where they got their withies but I can try and find out if it would help?
Liam
If we can cut for ourselves it's better :D and excellent if we can find somewhere with permission to coppice.
For folks who haven't done any basketry, or who have, and know what they want, the bolts are easier.
It's just coming to the end of the time when we can harvest really. So we'd need to be quick off the mark.
When I saw the special offers on the brown stuff (it's a bit of a pain since it needs 3 or 4 days soaking unlike the whites and buffs that can be done very quickly, but it's still got the bark on and it looks more complete somehow) I realised that the cost of the postage would just bring it up to the usual price without any extra costs :approve:
Just an idea :)
cheers,
M
Slight plan change - got to get daughter to guide selection weekend on the Friday, so will attend Sat and Sun only. Probably won't camp as it's only 5 mins down the road from home and young son has no body fat at all to insulate him...I've advised Comrie Croft accordingly.
I'll still bring along the parachute and stuff first thing Sat and still happy to chip in for hall fees.
NS
Life happens :)
Thanks for letting us know, and we'll see you on the Saturday :D
Don't hassle about the 'chute, we've got the hall if it gets dire this time.
I could just ask Comriecroft for theirs, and with mine going up for cooking we'll manage. That way you'll have time to do the things you wanted.
cheers,
M
FordPrefect
06-03-2010, 16:48
Hi,
I'm thinking of coming along with my wife and two children aged 4 (boy) & 7(girl).
I was just wondering, is anybody else bringing young children?
I will also be there over the weekend along with Jason G....,Tony plus one....
Col..... looking forward to it....
windward
06-03-2010, 19:58
Never done any basket work but willing to learn so happy to chip into buying some willow.
V.
I will be there Fri to Sun, will bring some woollen blankets to hand out. coming with two kids and one other adult, two other friends will come up on sat, sun.
stuart f
06-03-2010, 22:24
Anyone want to share an order and one delivery price on willow for basketry ? We could get it delivered to the site and split it there ?
http://www.willowgrowers.co.uk/specialoffers.php
Basically add on a couple of £'s for the delivery per bolt/ bundle.
2kgs is a lot of willow to play with.
cheers,
Toddy
Hi Mary,i'm just back from a week on the road,i would also chip in for the Willow,how many bundles were you thinking about?
Also are we going to have a communal cook up,if so what do you want me to bring along,or would we just bring stuff along and see what we could knock up.
Hi,
I'm thinking of coming along with my wife and two children aged 4 (boy) & 7(girl).
I was just wondering, is anybody else bringing young children?
Hi Ford,i will be bringing my youngest,Sophie shes 12,and she pleased as punch because shes getting a day off school :rolleyes:
Cheers Stuart.
listenclear
06-03-2010, 23:09
I'd be delighted to chip in for willow if it means i can learn to weave a basket!
I'm wishing I'd explained myself a little clearer on the willow :o
To teach basketry, willow that soaks quickly is the easiest. The stuff called buffs, which is a boiled and peeled willow is ideal.
The rods that are on special offer are browns. They still have their bark on and while they make very natural looking baskets they need three or four days to soak to make them pliable.
I was thinking that if we got one order delivered it would save a fair bit on postage but it would mean that we could take home our share.
How about we leave the willow for now, and I see about organising another weekend just for basketry, and maybe hurdle making ?
It can easily take a whole day to make a basket, especially if folks are just learning.
If I bring along the buffs I have, we could maybe do some of the tension trays, corn dollies and the like this weekend, maybe some of the rush work ? I have some brambles stripped out.........and I know Stuart's done coiled baskets :D We could maybe do some of that too.
Still happy to organise a willow order if folks want, it was only this time because the browns were on special.
cheers,
M
stuart f
07-03-2010, 00:25
I'm with Mary on the Willow thing as i'm starting to get the feeling that we may be biting off more than we can chew,after all Rome was'nt built in a day :D
I also think it might be an idea to may be start a list of names,so we get clearer picture of whos coming to the meet up,as its getting nearer the time.
OK i will start. Please add your names.
Stuart f. and Sophie - Fri,Sat,Sunday.
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
I also think it might be an idea to may be start a list of names,so we get clearer picture of whos coming to the meet up,as its getting nearer the time.
OK i will start. Please add your names.
Stuart f. Fri,Sat,Sunday.
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1
07-03-2010, 03:40
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69
07-03-2010, 07:10
Stuart f. and Sophie - Fri,Sat,Sunday.
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
Stuart f. and Sophie - Fri,Sat,Sunday.
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
JohnC, Jane and Joe - late Fri, Sat, Sun am.
Stuart f. and Sophie - Fri,Sat,Sunday.
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
JohnC, Jane and Joe - late Fri, Sat, Sun am.
Colin and Jason - Sat - Sun.
Gailainne
07-03-2010, 09:33
Stuart f. and Sophie - Fri,Sat,Sunday.
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
JohnC, Jane and Joe - late Fri, Sat, Sun am.
Colin and Jason - Sat - Sun
Gailainne Fri-Sun
Stuart69
07-03-2010, 10:03
Stuart f. and Sophie - Fri,Sat,Sunday.
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
JohnC, Jane and Joe - late Fri, Sat, Sun am.
Colin and Jason - Sat - Sun
Gailainne Fri-Sun
Salmoor Fri-Sun
Stuart f. and Sophie - Fri,Sat,Sunday.
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
JohnC, Jane and Joe - late Fri, Sat, Sun am.
Colin and Jason - Sat - Sun
Gailainne Fri-Sun
Salmoor Fri-Sun
gazmc2 fri - sat pm
Barn Owl
07-03-2010, 10:46
Stuart f. and Sophie - Fri,Sat,Sunday.
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
JohnC, Jane and Joe - late Fri, Sat, Sun am.
Colin and Jason - Sat - Sun
Gailainne Fri-Sun
Salmoor Fri-Sun
gazmc2 fri - sat pm
Barn Owl Fri-Sun
woods_man
07-03-2010, 12:26
Stuart f. and Sophie - Fri,Sat,Sunday.
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
JohnC, Jane and Joe - late Fri, Sat, Sun am.
Colin and Jason - Sat - Sun
Gailainne Fri-Sun
Salmoor Fri-Sun
gazmc2 fri - sat pm
Barn Owl Fri-Sun
Woodsman Fri - Sun
Stuart f. and Sophie - Fri,Sat,Sunday.
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
JohnC, Jane and Joe - late Fri, Sat, Sun am.
Colin and Jason - Sat - Sun
Gailainne Fri-Sun
Salmoor Fri-Sun
gazmc2 fri - sat pm
Barn Owl Fri-Sun
Woodsman Fri - Sun
Stooboy Fri - Sun
looking forward to it, not got much to share other than tall tales and beer :) I can try and pass on what i do know if people ask, will be a fair breadth of knowledge there based on the current list anyway
windward
07-03-2010, 19:22
Stuart f. and Sophie - Fri,Sat,Sunday.
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
JohnC, Jane and Joe - late Fri, Sat, Sun am.
Colin and Jason - Sat - Sun
Gailainne Fri-Sun
Salmoor Fri-Sun
gazmc2 fri - sat pm
Barn Owl Fri-Sun
Woodsman Fri - Sun
Stooboy Fri - Sun
Windward Fri - Sun
Looking forward to it, I can try and pass on what I do know about Airbed repair may run a Worskhop over the weekend, if people ask.
Hahahahahaha, sorry mate, couldn't resist. :lmao::D
Liam
stuart f
07-03-2010, 19:46
I,ve got a few spare packs of Wrigleys if you need them.Is there a preferred flavour?,does juicy fruit have better glue-ing qualities than say double mint? :D
Cheers Stuart.
Classic.
I've a spare bicycle puncture repair kit Stooboy, I'll keep one in my GS Bergan for you just in case. :)
Been years since I've seen anyone fix a Li-Lo, any chance you can take it to Comrie and fix it "LIVE"?
Liam :lmao:
yes very funny you two! :P ironic up until this weekend i was thinking of selling that airmat as used but not abused!
listenclear
07-03-2010, 20:04
Stuart f. and Sophie - Fri,Sat,Sunday.
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
JohnC, Jane and Joe - late Fri, Sat, Sun am.
Colin and Jason - Sat - Sun
Gailainne Fri-Sun
Salmoor Fri-Sun
gazmc2 fri - sat pm
Barn Owl Fri-Sun
Woodsman Fri - Sun
Stooboy Fri - Sun
Windward Fri - Sun
Paul, Graham and Gordon Fri - Sun
stuart f
07-03-2010, 20:14
yes very funny you two! :P ironic up until this weekend i was thinking of selling that airmat as used but not abused!
Never mind mate,i will have a beer ready for you,with your name on it,at the meet.And we can toast the demise of the said mat.:beerchug:
Cheers Stuart.
Stuart f. and Sophie - Fri,Sat,Sunday.
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
JohnC, Jane and Joe - late Fri, Sat, Sun am.
Colin and Jason - Sat - Sun
Gailainne Fri-Sun
Salmoor Fri-Sun
gazmc2 fri - sat pm
Barn Owl Fri-Sun
Woodsman Fri - Sun
Stooboy Fri - Sun
Windward Fri - Sun
Paul, Graham and Gordon Fri - Sun
Thomas,Paul, Katriona, Jasmin Fri, Sat, Sun.
Beky, Mondo, Sat, Sun
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
JohnC, Jane and Joe - late Fri, Sat, Sun am.
Colin and Jason - Sat - Sun
Gailainne Fri-Sun
Salmoor Fri-Sun
gazmc2 fri - sat pm
Barn Owl Fri-Sun
Woodsman Fri - Sun
Stooboy Fri - Sun
Windward Fri - Sun
Paul, Graham and Gordon Fri - Sun
Thomas,Paul, Katriona, Jasmin Fri, Sat, Sun.
Beky, Mondo, Sat, Sun
Nonsuch + son - Sat, Sun
FordPrefect
08-03-2010, 13:40
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
JohnC, Jane and Joe - late Fri, Sat, Sun am.
Colin and Jason - Sat - Sun
Gailainne Fri-Sun
Salmoor Fri-Sun
gazmc2 fri - sat pm
Barn Owl Fri-Sun
Woodsman Fri - Sun
Stooboy Fri - Sun
Windward Fri - Sun
Paul, Graham and Gordon Fri - Sun
Thomas,Paul, Katriona, Jasmin Fri, Sat, Sun.
Beky, Mondo, Sat, Sun
Nonsuch + son - Sat, Sun
FordPrefect + 1 & 2 halves Fri-Sun
FordPrefect
08-03-2010, 13:56
we could maybe do some of the tension trays, corn dollies and the like this weekend,
It would be great if you could show us/the kids how to make corn dollies!
Also are we going to have a communal cook up,if so what do you want me to bring along,or would we just bring stuff along and see what we could knock up
Ditto. We would be keen to join in with a communal cook up.
Sherwood
08-03-2010, 14:05
I would love to make it to this weekend, it will be my first venture into bushcraft, but have camped for years.
Recently had a few vehicle problems, but ive sorted that now (hopefully :drive: ) so looking forward to the 5 1/2 hour drive :eek: , I was thinking of heading up towards Tyndrum anyway for a few days for a bit of goldpanning, so its not too far away.
I'm happy to chip in with the hall etc, not sure what skills I could share? but more than happy to share what I know about photography if anyones interested (my photography website link (http://www.micks-pics.co.uk))
Mike
warthog1981
08-03-2010, 18:30
Johnnytheboy - Sat.
Miyagi - Sat.
scottforsythe1 fri-sun
Stuart69 - Fri-Sun
JohnC, Jane and Joe - late Fri, Sat, Sun am.
Colin and Jason - Sat - Sun
Gailainne Fri-Sun
Salmoor Fri-Sun
gazmc2 fri - sat pm
Barn Owl Fri-Sun
Woodsman Fri - Sun
Stooboy Fri - Sun
Windward Fri - Sun
Paul, Graham and Gordon Fri - Sun
Thomas,Paul, Katriona, Jasmin Fri, Sat, Sun.
Beky, Mondo, Sat, Sun
Nonsuch + son - Sat, Sun
FordPrefect + 1 & 2 halves Fri-Sun
warthog1981 Fri Sat Sun
hmmmm, herself is on nightshifts and the farmers market is off the agenda this weekend. I wasn't going to come and stay over but maybe, just maybe....
C'mon somebody persuade me. :cool:
Y'know you want to :D
cheers,
M
hmmmm, herself is on nightshifts and the farmers market is off the agenda this weekend. I wasn't going to come and stay over but maybe, just maybe....
C'mon somebody persuade me. :cool:
You've got to go!!! :)
Liam
At this point those who know me well know I'm having a panic.
When Stuart and company were discussing organising this meet we sort of had a thought of maybe a dozen or so of us.
It snowballed :eek: :eek:
:D Delighted to see you all, relieved that Comriecroft hall and chute hire seems to be well covered, but feeling that maybe it's not a bad idea to set out the courtesies, especially since there are folks coming who are totally new to bushcraft.
Firstly,
Welcome :D
Now come and say hello, and who you are, to either me, Stuart or Russ, before you set up camp.
Secondly,
It is considered extremely discourteous to use someone else's tools without them being offered to you.
Do not ask to use someone's knife or axe.
It's not so much the expense of the tool, but the work in maintaining edges. If the owner blunts or damages it, they'll fix it, they cannot be assured that you will fix it to their satisfaction.
Thirdly,
Firewood doesn't cut itself. If you haven't helped bring it down the hill, or cut it up when it is down, don't burn it; and be prepared to move yourself and your cooking from the fire when those who worked for it need in.
Many hands make light work :D
If in doubt, ask, and someone will point you in the right direction to help :cool:
Comriecroft ask that we leave the dead standing and fallen stuff, in the wood directly adjacent to the campsite, alone. They are trying to improve the habitat and ecosystems.
We fetch firewood down from away up the hill.
Generally there are some bags of firewood for sale, speak to George or whoever is in the shop, if you want to do it that way.
Fourthly,
I know most of the children who are coming :) and know that they know how to behave in camp.
For those who are new though, your children are welcome but they are your responsibility 24/7.
They *must* be safe near fires, assorted sharps, and other folks equipment and guy lines.
It is expected that if any adult sees a child doing something dangerous they may intervene, and I do not expect that adult to then face hassle from the adults who were supposed to be watching the child. We not only have sharps on site but archery, fires and tripping hazards. We want a good weekend for everybody and neither Doc, Sniper, Nonsuch or I want to practice our First Aid.
This meet is a mostly adults one, a reasonable bedtime for children that allows adult conversation to thrive around the evening campfires is normal. Please accept this convention with understanding :)
That's pretty much it :D
It's not a course, or a major teaching workshop session, it's a meet where many of us will bring along tools and toys.
Bushcraft is "Chill out asap".
Don't know about anyone else, but this week, I need that :D
See you there.
atb,
Mary
Gailainne
08-03-2010, 20:35
Nicely done Toddy, I'll bring along hi-vis string to add to the parachute cords, cuts down on kids running into them at throat level :rolleyes: be aware some WILL still manage it.
If your not into cutting cords of wood for the weekends fire, bring bags with you, my shoulders are suspect so I always buy at least 2 bags of hardwood logs from the local petrol station, George also normally has bags of cut wood available for sale, btw that doesn't get you out of helping the guys get local logs.
Good idea :approve: I've still got some from Scott's tent at the Moot. I'll bring them along too. I've also packed the lanterns for the high point in.
cheers,
Toddy
stuart f
09-03-2010, 10:20
Hi folks,i,ve been talking with Mary(Toddy) about the meet and we think it might be an idea to have a communal cook up on the Saturday,rather than loads of people trying to cram round the fires cooking individual ones as it could get quite hectic.So what we thought was to maybe have a big pan of soup on the go all day so there would be something for lunch time.And i've heard that there may be a chance of a deer coming along also,so we thought if that was the case,we could get the deer prept and the hangi fired up first thing Saturday morning,that way the deer could cook away happily all day in the pit.At night we could also have a pan of stovies,or Haggis neeps and tatties along with the deer.Basically something thats cheap and filling so we can sit round the:campfire: later full and contented.
Now then this is where we are asking for volunteers to cook the soup and things,because there will be lots on the go in the hall.And Mary,myself and others who are demoing might not manage to get round to cooking as well.
We should have some nice big catering pans so no worries on that front.
As for bringing food stuff along for the communal meals,if folks want to bring maybe,tatties,leeks,carrots,tu rnip,haggis(veggie ones also) etc,but please remember if everyone turns up with tatties we will probably end up with 1/2 a tonne :D. Basically bring stuff that you will happily take home with you if it does'nt all get used.
Anyway over to you because am guan for a :coffee:.
Cheers Stuart.
Everything Mac
09-03-2010, 11:34
that's a great idea.
I would gladly keep an eye on the food cooking but I will be blacksmithing most of the day so that might not be an option.
On a side note - will people be wanting me to demonstrate basic blacksmithing? - I am by no means a skilled smith - I would regard myself a journeyman smith these days - but I am happy to show people what I do.
andy
stuart f
09-03-2010, 11:44
that's a great idea.
I would gladly keep an eye on the food cooking but I will be blacksmithing most of the day so that might not be an option.
On a side note - will people be wanting me to demonstrate basic blacksmithing? - I am by no means a skilled smith - I would regard myself a journeyman smith these days - but I am happy to show people what I do.
andy
Hi Andy,yeah go for it,i myself have'nt done any basic smithing since high school,and that was a fair few numbers of years back in the mists of time,so i would'nt mind seeing you demo it for us.
Cheers Stuart.
if your happy to do it andy i wouldnt mind haveing a look, also on the cooking front im no chef but i think it would be better if people took turns rather than one person committing to slave round the fire all day, prob get someone who knows what they're doing to kick it off and some instructions and i wouldnt mind takeing a turn for an hour or so makeing sure the fire keeps going and its not boiling away or burning.
Stoo
stuart f
09-03-2010, 12:01
if your happy to do it andy i wouldnt mind haveing a look, also on the cooking front im no chef but i think it would be better if people took turns rather than one person committing to slave round the fire all day, prob get someone who knows what they're doing to kick it off and some instructions and i wouldnt mind takeing a turn for an hour or so makeing sure the fire keeps going and its not boiling away or burning.
Stoo
Hi Stoo ,you hit the nail on the head,we are not after someone to do ALL the cooking,it was more like just if you can spare a bit of time then every little bit helps.
If you get my drift :)
Cheers Stuart.
ah fair do, also means the blame of food poisioning can be shared :)
windward
09-03-2010, 13:36
I'm more than happy to help with the cooking too...in fact I want to try the bannock as the first time it didn't turn out too well...will be bringing flour, dried milk ect.
Still waiting to hear if I'll be getting a deer or not...might be a last minute thing...all depends on if they're about when the guy goes out...but more importantly....is he a good shot!!
V.
I was on the phone with Stuart this morning, he says if you do get a deer he's up for helping sort it out and the hangi. He reckons Craig will volunteer too :D
See how it goes, no one's going to starve, but the deer would be an excellent treat for most.
cheers,
Mary
Happy to help with cooking...
i'm happy to help out with cooking etc, i'm no chef but as stated before if someone starts i'll take a shot at keeping an eye......when there are bubbles its boiling, rite??? :D
Everything Mac
09-03-2010, 14:58
See how it goes, no one's going to starve, but the deer would be an excellent treat for most.
cheers,
Mary
sure would :D
listenclear
09-03-2010, 15:49
Me and my lot will do their bit too. MAny hands and all that...
Big Geordie
09-03-2010, 16:40
Happy to help with cooking etc.. NOTE LIFT AVAILABLE from Glasgow.
Can't wait
G
I'm only up there on the Saturday, but anybody needs a hand with anything, I'll pitch in.
Liam
warthog1981
09-03-2010, 18:57
.On a side note - will people be wanting me to demonstrate basic blacksmithing? - I am by no means a skilled smith - I would regard myself a journeyman smith these days - but I am happy to show people what I do.
andy
Aye Id like to see please :) and Ive got something you might be interested in its a coil spring 2 foot long :) I,ll let you see it and see what you think ?
cheers Russ
Can I say thank you to everyone who has offered to help, and that includes those who did so by pm ? :approve:
It is very much appreciated :D If everyone does a bit then everybody gets time to do the things they want as well.
Mind you, some folks just like playing with the fire for a weekend :cool:
It's all good :)
I started packing the car today..........it's *never* all going to go :sigh
cheers,
Toddy