Frequently Asked Questions
Project raven
do we have to meet in person?
No! We are more than happy to connect via phone or video call. We want you to be in whatever environment makes you feel safest and most comfortable.
What happens to my story once i’ve shared it with you?
Project Raven aims to publish a book featuring stories from survivors of all walks of life. Our goal is to prove that trauma is trauma—whether you were sent to war or were sitting in your living room when it happened. By putting this proof into the world, we hope to inspire others to step forward and seek help, knowing they are not isolated in their emotions or their healing.
Will I lose ownership of my story?
No! While we require signed consent to secure the right to include your story in our novel, you retain the rights to your narrative. It is uniquely yours, woven with your own experiences. This process is about you stepping into your power; we are simply here to amplify your voice and celebrate your journey.
What personal information do i need to share?
You are in total control. To begin, all we need is a way to reach you (email or phone) and your preferred name. Your identity remains safe with us—we are here to support you, not expose you.
What does it cost?
There is no charge to become part of Project Raven. Our focus is solely on amplifying your story and building a community of resilience.
Who will I be speaking to?
You will be speaking with a fellow survivor who understands the immense courage it takes to speak your truth.
A Note on Healing: Please remember that while storytelling is a powerful tool, it is not a replacement for professional therapy. We are not certified therapists. It is important that you feel grounded and have processed your trauma in a safe, therapeutic environment before sharing. Delving into the past can bring up intense emotions and carries a risk of re-traumatization; we strongly recommend discussing your participation with your therapist or healthcare provider first. Your well-being is always the priority.
Trauma-Informed Storytelling (nationalsurvivornetwork.org) - This is a great resource to start!
Who will benefit from the funds raised from project raven?
A percentage of all proceeds will be donated to Wounded Warriors PTSD Dog Training. The remaining proceeds will be reinvested into Project Raven to build community partnerships and expand the support we can offer to survivors.
CUSTOM SHIELDS
What size should I order?
One of the most common questions we get is: "Which size is right for me?" The answer depends entirely on whether you are looking for a subtle home accent, a lightweight festival companion, or a historically imposing centrepiece. For your convivence we have come up with 4 standard size options (Though if you’d prefer something in between, please let us know!).
The Historical 50% Rule: Sizing for Authenticity
If your goal is historical accuracy or you are looking for proper combat proportions, historical sources and modern reenactors generally follow the "50% Rule."
The Golden Ratio: For the most authentic fit, your shield's diameter should be roughly equal to half of your total height.
Proper Coverage: When held in a traditional fighting stance, the top edge of the shield should align just below your chin or shoulder, while the bottom edge should reach just above your knee. This ensures your vital areas are fully protected without compromising your mobility.
For example, the 30’'‘ Hirdmenn shield would provide historically accurate coverage for someone around 5’0’’ tall. The 35’’ Chieftain shield would provide historically accurate coverage for someone around 5’10’’ tall, closely mirroring the archaeological finds from the Viking Age.
The Karl (12"): For Bookshelves & Gallery Wall
If you have limited wall space or want to incorporate Norse mythology into a broader display, the 12-inch Karl is ideal. It acts as a powerful accent piece without dominating the room. It is also the perfect scale for collecting multiple designs to hang together.
The Drengr (25"): For Renaissance Festivals & Cosplay
If you plan to carry your shield for hours at a time—like walking the grounds at a Renaissance festival—weight and manageability are your top priorities. The 25-inch Drengr hits the sweet spot. It is large enough to make a striking visual statement in photographs and alongside your garb, but comfortable enough to carry through a full day of events.
The Hirdmenn (30"): For Standard Wall Display
For wall display, a larger shield commands more presence. The 30-inch Hirdmenn works beautifully on most standard walls, reading as a prominent piece of historical art rather than just a decorative accessory. It offers excellent surface area for showcasing our most intricate Mythic-tier knotwork and runic borders.
The Chieftain (35"): For a Historical Statement Piece
Archaeological finds, such as the Gokstad ship burial, show that historical Viking shields were often around 37 inches in diameter. The 35-inch Chieftain is our most historically proportionate scale, delivering massive visual impact. This is the ultimate centrepiece for a large wall, living room, or above a mantle.