Bushcraft classic - handmade kuksa
Kuksa is a word that may be unfamiliar to those not associated with survivalism, bushcraft or Scandinavian culture. Well, it is a small wooden cup, which can be made with the simplest tools. Finnish Kuks can also be a great alternative for beginner sculptors. Making them is a simple task that amateurs can also handle. However, it requires time and precision.
Why use such primitive tools when there are much more advanced capabilities available on the market? How to make kuks with your own hands and whether they are a good gift idea? All of these questions regularly arise in forums and groups of wildlife enthusiasts. If you, too, would like to learn more about such products, you are cordially invited to read.
Handmade and artistic finish - Finnish kuks for bushcrafters
Spending hours with a saw, a spoon knife, sandpaper and a piece of wood can give you great satisfaction. However, before you go on to produce your own Finnish kuksa, it is worthwhile to get acquainted with professional products.
Handmade kuksa Finnish is not one of the cheapest items of equipment for bushcrafters. Handmade products always cost more because manufacturers put a lot of work, experience and passion into them. In addition, you need to consider the cost of materials and the time they take to make all the elements perfect. Kuksa is a great alternative for novice sculptors who have access to materials and additionally want to start earning from their passion. Patience will result in precision and experience.
If you are a beginner in bushcraft, it is better to choose a large kukse. Their capacity is between 150-200 ml. Small handmade kuksa Finnish Shot Drink offers about 50-80 ml. For amateurs, such an amount of drink may be too little, which will discourage them from using this wonderful traditional equipment.
What professional Finnish kuks are made of?
Wanting to simplify things, we can say that from wood. However, going into more detail, the most popular raw material is birch veneer. This distinctive growth has densely and irregularly arranged rings, so the final product offers a remarkable, original and unique design. Birch chert is also durable, so you don't have to worry about the quick deterioration of the kuksa - which doesn't mean you don't have to take care of its condition and cleanliness.
However, if you're concerned that birch tops may be difficult to find, it's a good idea to start your adventure with making kuxa from ordinary wood (such as birch).
Popular accessories include throws, antler elements and almost anything associated with wildlife and Scandinavian climate. Remember that out-of-the-box ideas will add variety to your product, so it's worth experimenting.
How to make your first mug?
Finnish Kuks can be a difficult opponent if you immediately set yourself the goal of making a mug with ears or rich decoration. Start with uncomplicated designs with a simple handle.
What you'll need? A birch checquette, a spoon knife, a vise and sandpaper. It will probably take you a long time to shape and model the mug properly - especially if you set your sights on perfection. However, do not rush, because it is not a competition. Precision will result in satisfaction and a wonderful, handmade kukkah!
