Crafting history: Tobias’s passion for Viking-age reenactment

As a HubSpot Solution Architect at Zooma, Tobias focuses on digital strategy and implementation. However, he's fully immersed in Viking-age reenactment outside of work. From historical crafts to archery, Tobias brings ancient Scandinavian history to life. I caught up with him to learn what sparked his passion for this unique hobby.

The spark for Viking-age reenactment

Tobias's love for Viking-age reenactment was born from a long-standing connection to nature and a series of hands-on hobbies like woodcarving, archery, and bushcraft. His true 'aha' moment came when he joined some friends at a historical market in Gamla Uppsala in Sweden. The unique energy of the event and the opportunity to combine these interests lit a spark that has continued to grow.

Viking or Viking-age?

While often associated with raiding warriors through pop culture, the Viking Age was about much more than 'going viking' (the Old Norse term for raiding or exploring). 'My reenactment dives into the quieter aspects of this era—specifically the daily life and craftsmanship of 9th-century Scandinavian and Frisian people. By focusing on traditional crafts, I aim to capture the essence of everyday life from a fascinating period of early medieval history,' Tobias explains. 

The atmosphere, the crafts, the energy—it was so much fun that I knew I'd found the perfect hobby

Crafting a winter tunic

Tobias creates a thick winter tunic among his many projects, combining functionality and authenticity. His creative process starts with inspiration, often from other reenactors' work and online resources like Pinterest and Facebook groups. Once he has a clear vision, he evaluates his materials—typically linen, wool, and leather. Though he experiments and adapts along the way, he embraces the process of evolving his skills. 'A big part of the process is experimenting, adapting to what works best, and making improvements even after it's finished,' he explains.

Preparing for reenactment events

Preparation for events is straightforward but purposeful. Tobias packs his historical clothing and any essentials for the day, such as archery gear or ingredients for an outdoor meal. He enjoys helping at his friend's archery stand, where he can introduce visitors to the thrill of shooting with a historical bow. 'It's great fun, and we can get many people involved,' Tobias says, underscoring how much he values the community aspect of these gatherings.

The challenges of historical accuracy

Staying historically accurate is essential to Tobias, but he's realistic about balancing enjoyment and accuracy. While some reenactors are strict about replicating Viking-age life to the smallest detail, Tobias prefers keeping things light. 'I avoid modern materials, but if designs end up a bit mixed or regional styles overlap, I chalk it up to historical trade—there was cultural exchange back then, too!' he explains. For him, it's more about experiencing and sharing in the historical vibe than aiming for perfection.

Researching authenticity

Today's technology makes research much easier, and Tobias is open to using tools like ChatGPT to delve into details about the Viking Age. Social media groups also serve as valuable resources where fellow reenactors share insights and tips. On the ground at events, Tobias taps into a wealth of knowledge, learning from reenactors who specialise in specific crafts. 'There are reenactors who are experts on particular techniques, and I learn a ton just by listening to them,' he shares.

Favourite moments in reenactment

For Tobias, the most rewarding part of Viking-age reenactment is witnessing the joy it brings to others. One memorable event involved helping a young boy in a wheelchair experience the thrill of archery, which drew a cheering crowd and ended in heartwarming smiles all around. Beyond moments like this, he loves the social aspect of feasting together after a day of events, enjoying meals inspired by historical recipes and the camaraderie it fosters.

Gaining perspective on Viking-age culture

While some reenactors see their participation as 'experimental research', Tobias approaches it with a desire for hands-on connection rather than academic rigour. Through the experience, he's gained a deeper understanding of Scandinavian history and the cultural exchanges during the Viking Age, particularly between the Vikings and other European cultures like the Frisians.

Advice for aspiring reenactors

When asked for advice, Tobias quickly emphasises the joy of diversity within the hobby. He encourages newcomers to try everything—sewing, leatherworking, cooking, archery—without the pressure of mastering any skill. 'My tunic isn't the nicest, but I enjoy making it,' he laughs. His parting wisdom? Don't worry about perfection; dive in and enjoy the journey.

Here are some more practical tips inspired by Tobias's Viking-age reenactment journey for anyone interested in diving into historical hobbies:

Start with a simple gear. You don't need a complete setup from day one. To get the feel of it, begin with a few essentials—comfortable historical clothing, basic shoes, or a simple handmade accessory.

Experiment with different crafts. Try various activities, such as sewing, woodcarving, or leatherwork. This will keep things exciting and help you find what resonates most.

Use events as deadlines. Set event dates as motivation to finish specific projects. This can help you stay focused and give you the satisfaction of showcasing new pieces.

Tap into online communities. Join social media groups or forums focused on reenactment. They're excellent resources for inspiration, advice, and connecting with others who share your passion.

Enjoy the learning process. Embrace mistakes and learn from them. Historical crafting is about exploration, so focus on the experience rather than perfection.

In a world where history often feels distant, Tobias's commitment to reenactment shows how hobbies rooted in the past can bring a rich, hands-on experience to modern life. His journey as a Viking-age reenactor illustrates how reconnecting with ancient skills and traditions fosters community and keeps the spirit of exploration alive.

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