Cool, I take my sticks for a walk also, to get a feel for it. I always cut my sticks over length so that if there is splitting on the ends , hopefully it will eventually stop before it ruins the stick or the looks. I cut to length when almost finished. I do “rootie” most often, I am left handed and so my grip often reflects that but, I sometimes shape the knob for a right hander or for either hand. I give away all the sticks I make to people that need a stick or just because ! I have been making canes or sticks since I was a Boy Scout, I am now 76, almost 77 and I only make a stick if I am in the mood. I really like the “grip” you have carved in this stick with the individual finger placement carved out, I may try that if I find the right shaped stick. I am fortunate to live where there is a lot of logging going on and where the state or county cuts back brush along the highway every few years. By cutting along a fence line, the knob forms by the bush growing back, when the diameter gets to where I like it, I will feel down around the roots and if I like the “shape” I will cut it free and bring it home to begin the process of making a stick or cane.
It sounds like we have very similar methods in carving sticks. I also have to be in the mood. I have a stick I carved last winter that is 95% done and I can't get myself to finish it. Thanks for stopping by brother
Thanks for mentioning be careful … I almost lost a thumb using a utility knife one time when I was much younger … I’m much more cautious now. Great video.
Utility knives will get you for sure! Glad you got to keep your thumb! Years of experience keeps me somewhat safe.... lol. Thanks for stopping by my friend
Lol. Thanks Phil. I've had carving knives and I can't keep them sharp enough. I have started using a round blade x-acto knife for fine tuning my grips. Other than that in my opinion you can't beat a utility knife for this application.
I have. The wood is too green to use a dremel. It instantly gums up. Same with a rasp or similar tools. I appreciate your suggestions. Thanks for stopping by!
That's probably close to correct. But I use them pretty much immediately after they are done. As they are drying sometimes they warp a bit. So I will repeatedly straighten them out to stretch the grain. Sometimes that keeps them from warping too bad. But if you sit it in a corner and forget about it it will definitely warp. Good luck with your project
Green wood will crack needs to be dry. Dont work a green stick. Will never be clear of bark. Why he can cut into it with a utility knife becuse wood is wet. If it was dry like your spose to use he would get anything cut out with just a utility knife. He will learn when this cracks everywhere. This is not proper way of doing this.
