Coal Burned Spoons

Crafting a handmade utensil by the campsite can a wonderfully fulfilling and relaxing project. Start by selecting a piece of wood with the appropriate diameter for your desired spoon. Cut to length and remove the outer bark with your knife.

Next, begin to whittle the handle and basic curvature of the spoon.

To hollow out the spoon section, take small coals from your fire with a pair of pliers and place in the center of the spoon. While holding light pressure on the top of the coal, blow gently and continuously. Continue to blow on the coal until it reduces away. Continue to add more coals and repeat. The spoon will begin to take shape and burn downwards.

You will get to the point where you will not have to keep adding coals, as the area will begin to glow orange on its own. Take care to avoid burning too thin. If you need to slow the burning on a side, gently scrape the char on that side with a small stick or rock.

Once a satisfactory amount has been burned away, rub the entire charred area with a small stick or rock until smooth.

Gently whittle around the spoon to complete the shape.

As a finishing touch you can gently “toast” the entire spoon and handle over a flame to bring out the grain. Over time it will take a lightly stained appearance.

Many attempts may be needed to get the right technique down, but no worries, you are still relaxing in front of a campfire in nature. Be patient and enjoy!