Shepherd’s Sling Workshop
Make and Learn to Use Shepherd’s Sling
Travel back to the time of ancient warriors and shepherds in this hands-on workshop where participants will craft their own sling from natural cordage—an ancestral hunting tool used for thousands of years across the globe, especially by the famed slingers of the Balearic Islands.
This workshop blends historical craftsmanship with practical physics and hand-eye coordination. Participants will not only make their own slings from natural materials, but also learn the techniques needed to safely and effectively sling soft practice ammo at designated targets.
🧠 What We’ll Cover:
- Traditional sling construction using natural fibers and leather
- Variations of sling design from different cultures
- Basic and intermediate throwing techniques (helicopter, figure-eight, overhand)
- The role of slings in hunting, warfare, and herding across history
🎯 Ideal For:
- Ages 12–Adult
- Homeschoolers, youth enrichment programs, scout troops, and historical reenactment groups
- Outdoor venues with sufficient space for safe target practice
- Groups interested in primitive skills, ancient history, or alternative ranged tools
🧩 Educational Themes:
- Material science and tool evolution
- Mechanics of centrifugal force and angular momentum
- Cultural anthropology and comparative weaponry
- Patience, discipline, and precision through experiential learning
📦 We Provide:
- Natural cordage, leather, and sample pouches
- Pre-cut templates and tools for assembly
- Practice projectiles and portable target setups
- Safety protocols and instructional guidance
🕒 Workshop Length: 90–120 minutes (includes build time and progressive skill challenges)
