Emma Boast
United Kingdom
Affiliation: University of York, Department of Archaeology & Independent Researcher
Member since: 2019
Topics of Interest: Ancient Technology, Fibre, Living History, Museum Management, Textile
Focus areas: Mesolithic, Neolithic, Bronze Age, Iron Age, Roman Era, Viking Age, Early Middle Ages
I'm a highly driven and experienced period artefacts, archiving and post excavation specialist, passionate about collaborative projects and artefact assessment, curation, care and research. Specialist in Viking Age 8th-11th Century material culture in the British Isles, from ferrous metalworking to organic textiles. Wider Early Medieval interests from the 5th-11th century AD and Anglian culture. Broader period and material specialisms of British archaeological material culture from the Mesolithic to Modern. Highly skilled in finds processing, quantification, databases, collation, artefact assessment, finds archiving and museum finds preparation and submission.
The UKs 1st Nalbinding Master Craftsman for the Endangered Heritage Craft of Nalbinding. Which is an ancient textile practice used to create items such as hats, socks, mittens, pouches, bags, throughout the archaeological past from Mesolithic-Modern times. I have been at the forefront of Nalbinding in UK since 2013 with my heritage crafts shop 'Nidavellnir Nalbinding'. In 2018 provided the primary archaeological and heritage research to enable Nalbinding to be listed as an 'Endangered Heritage Craft' with the Heritage Craft Association UK, further safeguarding this craft and practitioner's. Member of the Guild of Master Craftsman UK since 2019, and the main academic/advocate for this craft in the British Isles. Developing 'Nalbinding for Beginners' practical craft resources, such as starter kits, books and ebooks. As well as actively researching the archaeological artefacts and importance of this unique fibre craft and supporting the academic study and research of this craft worldwide.
Always happy and open to discuss potential Archaeological or Heritage Crafting/Reconstructive projects.
Open For research collaboration In the following topics
Ancient Technology, Fibre, Living History, Museum Management, Textile
Available for work in open-air museums or at cultural heritage events with demonstration skills in
Textile
Happy to mentor and share my experience in the following skills
Ancient Technology, Living History, Museum Management, Textile