Elements of Craft

Episode 16 - On the Water

In this episode, hear master boatbuilders talk about their craft and the materials they build their vessels with. Find out why certain types of wood are preferred for cer

Episode 15 - Stones of Superior

The shores of Lake Superior are well known for being shaped by both sharp cliffs and countless rocky beaches, covered in smooth stones and if you're lucky, precious agate

Episode 14 - Cedar Wood

Cedar is a wood that comes in many colors and species, and is used to make beautiful carvings, canoes, and more. Learn more about this sought after wood in this piece fro

Episode 13 - Many Metals

We've looked at iron in a previous episode, but there are so many other metals with their own unique properties and purposes. Learn about the strengths and weaknesses of

Episode 12: Plants and Herbs

The North Woods of Minnesota and Wisconsin are bountiful with all sorts of plants with medicinal properties, but it takes an expert eye and a wealth of knowledge to know

Episode 11 - Rosemaling

Rosemaling is a traditional style of painting from Scandinavia, used in decorating everyday objects with patterns of flowers and curves. Learn about the history of the ar

Episode 10 - Working with Leather

Leather can be a very dynamic, durable and versatile material. Explore how these three skilled women use it to make long-lasting shoes, bags, and more. Featured crafters

Episode 9 - Willow Weaving

This episode takes a look at willow and how it's harvested both in the wild and as a cultivated plant before being woven into baskets or furniture. Featured crafters: Em

Episode 8 - Foraging for Foods

In this jam-packed episode, you'll hear about edible plants and foods you can find in your local environment. Hear about traditional Viking foods, methods of harvesting w

Episode 7 - Black Ash

Black ash is a versatile wood with unique properties and found in Northern Minnesota. Listen to how it's harvested and what makes this tree so special for use in a variet

Episode 6 - Flour and Bread

Baking classes are a cornerstone of North House Folk School. Hear some experienced instructors talk about what the art of baking means to them, starting with raw grain an

Episode 5 - All About Wool

Wool is an incredible substance and crafting material made by some of our fluffiest animal friends. Explore how it gets sheared from the sheep and turned into felt and dy

Episode 4 - Timbers of the North

In this episode, we learn about the different types of trees that grow in Northern Minnesota, and how they've been used to build structures for generations. Also features

Episode 3 - Iron & Steel

In this episode of Elements, learn about blacksmithing and the process of creating steel out of iron, including ancient practices using ore from Northern Minnesota Featu

Episode 2 - Harvesting Birch Bark

In this episode, listen to the great sounds of how birch bark is sustainably harvested from trees, and what items can be crafted from it - from canoes to baskets. Featur

Episode 1 - What's the Big Idea?

In this intro to the series, we hear about the mission of North House Folk School and the nature of material craft. Why do people want to make things from the natural mat