How to Carve Arrowheads From Obsidian

Our ancestors relied on stones like obsidian to make tools and weapons. Remnants and actual arrowheads still exist today. It's possible to make your own arrowheads by carving them in much the same method. Follow these instructions to learn how to carve arrowheads from obsidian.

Instructions

1. Grasp a large "flake" or piece of obsidian and hold it in one hand so that the portion you wish to carve into an arrowhead is free.

2. Choose a tool with which you wish to work to carve the arrowhead. Traditional tools included deer antlers or even other rocks.

3. Begin carving the arrowhead by rapping the tool you have chosen along the edge of the obsidian. Chip away little portions at a time, carving away more and more until you begin to get a sharp edge that is "lens-shaped" and serrated.

4. Finish one side of the obsidian, carving it into the angled shape of an arrowhead, then shift your hand and begin working on carving the other side of the arrow head.

5. Take your time as you carve the obsidian into the shape of an arrowhead. Do not try to remove to much of the rock at a time, for this could result in the rock chipping away in a manner you may not wish.

6. Carve the obsidian in the primitive fashion for an edge that's strong and can resist chipping.