Knapping flakes

[Tracker0721]

So I got some georgetown flint and reduced a chunk to flakes for arrowheads but on every piece I have a "bulb" that it seems I can't flatten and I have a ridge close to one edge or the other, only on one side, and I either get hinges all along it or short flakes that don't remove it. And then I try to run down the ridge and it doesn't take off nearly enough to help. Any tips here?

[comebackshane]

when I make points from flakes I usually use the bulb of percussion end for the point end so its easier to get it thinned.

[Sasquatch]

Yep, allergic hobbit, paleomanjim on YouTube.  I owe 90% of my education about flint Knapping to them. I have spent hrs watching them.

[iowabow]

Try working the bulb from the middle of the flake to the tip by taking a flake from each side as you go. You will be stitching the edge as you go. You will not complete the task with the first pass so plan on doing it a couple times.hope this helps a little.

[flungonin]

I have exactly the same problem. Never thought of switching ends. Thanks

[Outbackbob48]

When the bulb is on the tail end I try and set it up like your going for a flute and thin the bulb from the end early in reduction, or put it on the point end Bob

[JackCrafty]

It takes a lot of power to thin down a bulb on a flake.  I use indirect percussion for this because I cannot get enough power from pressure while trying to hold the flake firmly...  the flake always moves too much.  You might try putting the flake in a vice and use a punch until you can figure out the best way to hold it.  I'm serious.

I assume you are just beginning.  Beginners always have trouble thinning the lumpy areas.  Making the thick end the tip can help  ( a little )  but you will usually end up with a thick tip.  It's better to have the thickness at the base, IMO.

[Tracker0721]

Got a couple thinned by starting in the middle working to the bulb, tried fluting and the flute didn't take nearly enough, then I used a bopper and broke one, perfectly took it out with another. Up next, vice and punch I suppose. Thanks for any help so far!