#77 Markus Nystrom on Project Quiver

Markus Nyström is a Swedish bowyer living near Uppsala who carves under the brand of Barrlind Bows. He sources local woods such as juniper and hazel from farms and forests near his home. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Markus Nyström. Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/barrlind_bows/ https://www.facebook.com/nilsmarkuspilbagar/ Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions Summary: Dive into an engaging conversation with Markus Nyström, a Swedish bow maker deeply rooted in forest knowledge, craftsmanship, and sustainable sourcing. Discover how regional forests shape bow making, the importance of local materials, and the philosophy behind this traditional craft. Show Notes: Markus shares his experiences with collecting bow woods in Sweden and the significance of the country's "Allemansrätten" (Right of Public Access). Discussion on the unique properties of Nordic woods like juniper, birch, elm, and how climate and forest management influence wood quality for bows. The impact of forestry practices such as clear-cutting on bow wood availability and the importance of local sourcing and traded staves. Insights into different bow woods: juniper, hazel, elm, and the challenges and benefits of working with them. Techniques and tools for carving soft woods like juniper, including a discussion on minimalism and tool selection. Markus’s journey from making a simple youth bow to professional craftsmanship and the role of passion versus income in his work. The role of environmental consciousness and ethical sourcing in sustainable bow making practices. Cultural distinctions and regional differences in bow materials across Europe and North America. Insights on the future of bow making, personal projects, and how the craft remains a meditative and artistic pursuit. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Marcus and his Scandinavian background 02:00 - Forests of Sweden: Agriculture, wood sources, and the right to roam 04:20 - Finding suitable bow woods in agricultural fields versus forests 06:00 - The significance of old farms and hedgerows for bow staves 08:00 - Types of woods Marcus works with: juniper, hazel, elm, and others 10:30 - Collecting material from fallen trees and old plantations 13:00 - Working soft woods like juniper and carving techniques 15:30 - Making bows: from beginner to professional and the importance of experience 18:00 - Tools of the trade: rasp, razor blades, and minimalism in carving 21:00 - Journey from hobbyist to craftsman: making bows for income versus passion 24:00 - Sourcing materials across Europe and North America—local versus traded staves 28:00 - Environmental considerations and ethical sourcing of bow woods 33:00 - Cultural differences in bow woods across regions and personal preferences 36:00 - Challenges working with certain woods: cracking, drying, and processing 40:00 - The cultural and spiritual aspects of bow making as an art form 45:00 - The future of bow making and community sharing of knowledge 50:00 - Personal passions, art, and the joy of craft 55:00 - Final tips for aspiring bowyers and respecting forest resources