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.

“Juniper bows ends up being kind of lightweight and like easy to maneuver.”

— Markus Nyström

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

#77 Markus Nyström on Project Quiver

#76 Steven Bieber on Project Quiver