Drinkware
Wooden Tankards
Stave-built hardwood vessels inspired by finds from Birka and Gotland - made to raise at the table, the faire, or the fire.
The form
History you can drink from
Our tankards and mugs draw on archaeological findings from Birka and Gotland, Sweden. Those trading and island sites left stave and vessel forms that reach back to the Vendel Era and Viking Age, and stayed useful through the Late Middle Ages. Rob studies that material the way he studies family records: check the source, then build only what holds up.
We build with durable hardwoods and traditional stave construction. Staves are shaped and joined so the vessel stays tight under drink and travel, without relying on metal bands as decoration. No stains or dyes. Natural oils and waxes protect the wood and leave the grain honest.
Turned mugs can look fine on a shelf. A stave tankard is a different object: it reads as historical craft, and it is meant to be lifted, washed, and used.
Craft
Built like the old ones - finished for today
Stave construction
Joined hardwood staves create a vessel that’s strong, repairable in spirit, and true to historical drinkware.
Selected hardwoods
Maple, walnut, cherry, and oak - each board chosen for figure, strength, and how it will age in your hands.
Natural finish only
Oils and waxes deepen color and protect the surface. We never hide the wood under stain or dye.
Made to use
These aren’t shelf ornaments. They’re for gatherings, campaigns, and nights when the mug should feel like part of the story.
Materials
Wood that earns its place
- Maple - light tone and subtle figure. A clean, bright look that shows every tool mark and oil coat.
- Walnut - rich dark grain. Strong presence at the table; pairs well with evening light and leather gear.
- Cherry - warm hue that deepens over years of use and oiling. A favorite when you want the piece to change with you.
- Oak - strength and distinctive historical character. The wood people expect when they think of early European furniture and vessels.
Every tankard is one of a kind. Grain patterns do not repeat, and we do not force them to with stain. If you want a custom wood choice or size, email tuskandbraid@gmail.com before we start.
Care and use
How to live with a wooden tankard
These vessels are finished with food-safe natural oils and waxes, not film finishes that chip. Hand-wash with mild soap and warm water. Dry promptly. Do not leave a tankard soaking in the sink or sitting full overnight. Avoid the dishwasher and microwave.
If the wood looks dry after months of use, a light wipe of food-safe mineral oil or beeswax balm brings the surface back. Small marks from rings and knives are normal; they are part of how hardwood drinkware ages when it is actually used.
Good fits
- Home table - beer, mead, water, and soft drinks at gatherings.
- Faire and reenactment - period look without costume-shop thinness.
- Gifts - one-of-a-kind grain for people who already have enough glassware.
- Custom marks - ask by email about carving or layout requests before we build.
From the table
“A conversation starter at every gathering.”
Customers use these tankards regularly - at home, at the faire, and anywhere a wooden vessel belongs in the story.
FAQ
Tankard questions
What inspired these tankards?
Archaeological finds from Birka and Gotland, Sweden - Vendel Era and Viking Age forms that remained popular through the Late Middle Ages.
How are they built?
Traditional stave construction in select hardwoods, finished with natural oils and waxes. No metal adornments, stains, or dyes.
What woods do you use?
Maple, walnut, cherry, and oak - chosen for grain, strength, and how they age.
How should I wash a wooden tankard?
Hand-wash with mild soap, rinse, and dry right away. No dishwasher, no long soaks. Re-oil lightly if the wood looks dry after heavy use.
How do I buy one?
See ready pieces in the shop. For a custom tankard, email tuskandbraid@gmail.com.