How to create a fall leaf walking stick making project

   Now is the time to start working on the wood collected last fall for your walking stick making project. If you did not strip the bark off the hiking stick at the time when you collected it,  you will find its much harder now.  It is always best to strip the bark off at time of collecting when the wood is still moist. One great project that we are giving away as a bonus with the walking stick making guides is a fall leaf design project that combines may of the techniques in  the stick making projects in the guides.

     The image to the right is a partially complete fall leaf project. The copper wire is being added to give the stick more character.    The copper wire is anchored into the hiking stick by drilling a small hole and inserting the wire into it with a small amount of epoxy on the wire tip to help it hold.

     The next step will be a hand woven hand old area with a strap cord. We use para-cord for all handles because it is durable plus in an emergency you can unwind it and use for many survival uses.

      Just before I was ready to put the clear shellac on it uses a wood burner to write the type of wood and were collected with date towards the bottom of the hiking stick. Making your own hiking sticks and walking sticks is a great way to bring back memories of favorite trips.

     The last step is to put the finished waterproof coat of shellac or similar finish of your choice. When this walking stick making project was finished I added a small compass on the top of the stick.