What Are Common Bow Making Myths To Avoid?

Choosing the Wrong Stave

Many novice bow makers believe that any straight branch can be made into a good bow stave, but this is far from true. In reality, a good bow stave should have a minimum of 6-8 inches of clear sapwood and a maximum of 2-3 inches of heartwood at the ends. This is due to the fact that the sapwood provides flexibility, while the heartwood is too dense and prone to cracking. When selecting a stave, look for one with a straight grain, a diameter of 1-2 inches, and a length of 60-72 inches.

Tillering: The Key to a Smooth Draw

Tillering, or bending and shaping the bow stave, is a crucial step in making a functional bow. Many novice bow makers skip this step or do it incorrectly, resulting in a bow that is uneven, stiff, or even breaks under stress. To tiller a bow correctly, apply gentle heat to the stave, then bend it into the desired shape using a tillering jig or form. Repeat this process several times, gradually increasing the tension, until the bow reaches the desired shape and smoothness.

The Importance of Sinew Backing

Sinew backing, or wrapping sinew around the bow’s back to add strength and stability, is often overlooked or done incorrectly. However, a well-made sinew backing is essential for a bow’s durability and performance. To make a good sinew backing, use raw hide sinew, soak it in water, and then wrap it around the back of the bow in a figure-eight pattern, overlapping each wrap by about 1/4 inch. Use a total of 3-5 wraps, depending on the desired thickness and strength.