Forgot your spoon while camping? Here’s a way to make one in the field.
(1 min. 16 sec. video shot by me on 8 Nov 2025 in Lelystad, the Netherlands)
Method
- Find a thick branch with a gentle natural curve. Saw it to length.
- Split off the back and belly with your knife and a baton so you’re left with a flat, curved blank.
- Sketch the spoon outline on the blank with charcoal or a pencil.
- For the bowl: place a glowing ember from the fire on the marked area, hold it in place with a stick, and blow gently so it burns a shallow hollow.
- Carve to your outline and refine the shape. Always cut away from your body and keep your fingers behind the edge.
Alternatives
- Instead of ember-burning, hollow the bowl with a crooked (hook) knife.
- No time for a spoon? Whittle a quick pair of chopsticks instead. 😉
Bon appétit!