How To Make A Viking Shield?

Viking shield

In the harsh and dangerous world of the Vikings, a shield was not only a vital piece of equipment but also a Viking symbol of strength and courage. A Viking’s shield could be made from wood, metal, or even animal hide and was often decorated with intricate designs. In this article, we will show you how to make your very own Viking shield in a few simple steps. Read the article for more information. 

What were the different Viking shield designs? 

Viking shields were designed for both function and aesthetics. The different Viking shield parts served various purposes, such as the boss and rim. The boss protected the hand holding the shield, while the rim protected the edges of the guard from damage. The shield’s design also played a role in how it was used in combat. Some shields were designed for use in close quarters, while others were intended for use at the range.

The diverse Viking tribes also had impressive designs for their shields. These designs reflected the culture and values of each tribe. Some tribes used symbols on their shields representing their gods or ancestors, while others used geometric patterns or animal motifs. Meanwhile, historians believe that the different Viking shield designs were created based on the climate and terrain of the Vikings’ areas. The shields were made from a variety of materials, including wood, leather, and metal.

The most common type of Viking shield was the round Viking shield. Such shields were made from a wooden frame covered with leather or metal. They measured about three feet in diameter and had a central boss (a raised area in the center of the shield) used to deflect blows. Another common type of Viking shield was the kite-shaped shield. These shields were longer and narrower than the round shields, providing more protection for the body. They were often used by Viking warriors who fought on horseback.

Viking shield designs colors meanings

Viking shield designs were created to be both practical and beautiful. The colors and patterns had meaning and told a story about the owner. Shields were often brightly colored and decorated with intricate designs. Each color had a specific sense, and the patterns told a story about the person who owned the shield.

For example, red was a powerful color that symbolized courage and strength. It was often used to decorate shields belonging to warriors. Blue was a calming color that represented wisdom and knowledge used on shields belonging to healers or those in positions of authority. At the same time, green was a symbol of growth and new beginnings. It was often used on shields belonging to young warriors or those who had recently undergone a significant life change. Finally, Scandinavian people believed that yellow represented joy and happiness, which was often used on shields belonging to celebratory occasions or special events.

How to make an authentic Viking shield: DIY Viking shield

Are you looking for a unique shield to make your costume stand out from the rest? If so, why not try making your own authentic Viking shield? It’s easier than you might think, and with just a few materials and some basic tools, you can create a stunning shield that will have everyone asking where you got it.

Here’s what you’ll need to get started: 

  • A large piece of plywood
  • A jigsaw
  • Some sandpaper
  • Paint or wood stain (optional)
  • Leather straps or rope

Instructions: 

  1. Trace a shield shape onto your plywood using a pencil. Plenty of templates are available online if you’re unsure what shape to use.
  2. Cut out the shield shape with your jigsaw. Be sure to wear eye protection while doing this!
  3. Smooth out the edges of your shield with some sandpaper. If you want, you can also paint or stain the wood at this point.
  4. Use leather straps or ropes to attach to a shield in order to hold it safely in your hand. Well done! 

What are the easy Viking shield designs for handmade shields? 

While many people might envision Viking shields as being large and cumbersome, there are actually a number of simple designs that even the most novice of crafters can execute. With a little imagination and some basic materials, it is possible to create a shield that would make any Viking warrior proud.

One of the most straightforward designs is known as the “kite shield.” This style was popular among Norse warriors because it provided good coverage while still being relatively light and easy to maneuver. To create a kite shield, all you need is a sturdy piece of wood that has been cut into an oblong shape. The edges can be left natural, or you can use rope or leather straps to create a border.

It is worth mentioning that the Viking shield construction generally follows the same steps regardless of the design. First, the wood frame is assembled and then covered with fabric or leather. The shield is then painted or decorated as desired. In addition, Viking shields were often brightly colored and decorated with intricate designs. Many shields were inscribed with runes, believed to have magical properties.