self made walking sticks

[The Guy in the Kilt at UC]

So you dry it for a year, peel off the bark, and finish it with a wood finish? When do you put on the wax to keep it from cracking?

[Panache]

So you dry it for a year, peel off the bark, and finish it with a wood finish? When do you put on the wax to keep it from cracking?

At the very beginning to seal the ends

Perhaps X Marker Kilted Carver would have some advice on what product to use? He is a woodworker by trade and has an awful lot of experience making walking sticks and staffs)

If he doesn't weigh in perhaps shoot him a PM

Cheers

Jamie :ootd:

[Tartan Hiker]

Just use the wax sold in the grocery store for canning and waxing preserves. Here in the states a product called "GulfWax" is pretty common on store shelves. It comes in a 1-pound block. Melt it in an old saucepan (one that you won't be using for food ever again). When the wax melts, just dip the ends of the stick in for a few seconds and let it cool. That's all there is to it. And yes, if you want the wood to season correctly seal the ends, all the places where side branches were removed, and leave the bark on. Most folks do agree that about one year like this is the minimum seasoning time.

Be careful with the melting process. On an electric stove, use a very low heat or use a double-boiler. If a gas stove, be VERY careful as the wax will indeed burn if exposed directly to flame. I heat mine in the garage with a propane torch...slow and gentle...with a fire extinguisher near at hand.

And by the by...a good friend of mine has a fine staff that he made from a holly, seasoned just this way. It is a beauty to behold, and will no doubt last many decades.