Make a handsome wooden walking stick for almost nothing

Step 5 Smoothing the shank

pic 18 With hazel smooth the shank removing any flakes of bark and smoothing down any knots. Don't overdo it with the sandpaper as you will take off too much bark. I use a sheet of 120 grit ,  Ash is a good wood to use but the bark is green/grey and wrinkly. I suggest with ash, sand the bark a little smoother. It brings out a nicer brown shade. Wash ash down after sanding. Just use a damp cloth to take off any bits with hazel.

Other woods may not have such a good bark and so you may want to take it off altogether. When I do this the wood can be rather pale underneath I cheat. Brew a nice cup of coffee, no milk no sugar, and paint the solution down the stick it dyes it wonderfully. Try different strengths on a scrap piece first. When it's dry you can varnish over it! You could use a woodstain or use a coloured varnish. Outdoor type is best.

Comments

[laurent123]

the coffee idea is awsome i never would of thought of that, quick idea here though. i usualy use olive oil it works realy well i dont know mybe you wann try it out

[gilleseg]

Coffee instead of wood stain brilliant!