That wasn't a proper answer Wayne. I really don't know any secret though. I will say, I don't use a sharp flaker. I can't get one that's real sharp to throw a flake like that. The neg. bulb is too deep and it leaves too much of a delta. Plus, it's hard to get a big bite on a super thin edge without crushing it. I like a wide, thin tipped flaker that will flex ever so slightly when I put the pressure to it. That way when the flake detaches, the flaker stays in contact with it a little longer, thus driving it farther. Kinda like antler.
On the pine trees, I built a good slick convex preform with absolutly no overhang on the edge. Shape it to exactly the shape the point will be and give it one pass one each edge. After the first pass on one edge, I shear it to move the platform towards the other edge and repeat. One chance is all I get, cause by the time I finish all four sides, it's too thin to try again.
Also, I knapp in my hand with a small piece of leather to protect my palm. The flakes won't "bend" over the center of the point if you use a grooved pad. They need to be in gentle contact with something to keep them moving across the point. As for the curves... it's all inthe wrist.
Here's a picture of my flaker. Hope this helps a little.
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