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Main Boards => The Bowyer's Bench => Topic started by: mh2324 on October 08, 2015, 12:27:00 PM

Title: First selfbow build
Post by: mh2324 on October 08, 2015, 12:27:00 PM

I really want to attempt to build my first self bow. I have absolutely zero experience and wondered if anyone here had any advice for me going into this attempt. Wood type, needed tools, resources for instruction/info, tips learned from personal experience, etc. Anything and everything that anyone here would like to provide in terms of info would be very very appreciated. Really excited to make this attempt. We have a one year old baby and after some practice and time I would love to build a bow I can pass down to him. Thanks to everyone in advance.

Title: Re: First selfbow build
Post by: Pat B on October 08, 2015, 01:09:00 PM

Start out simple. Read everything you can about building selfbows, find a nice red oak board at Lowe's or Home Depot and get started. As far as tools you can do the tillering with a good wood rasp and a scraper. For shaping the stave you can use a hatchet or similar tool or use a bandsaw if you have one.
 There are a few folks here with instruction videos or a website. George Tsoukalsa is one and "Poor Folks" is another. Once you are ready to start come back here and we can walk you through the process. Posting pics of your progress or problems here and there are lots of folks willing to help you along.

Title: Re: First selfbow build
Post by: Eric Krewson on October 09, 2015, 08:33:00 AM

All of us experienced bow makers were just as green as you are back in the day.

One big thing to understand is that you may fail on your first few attempts, most of us did. Keep plugging away and before you know it you will be cranking out bows that everyone will admire.

Be forewarned; bow making isn't a hobby, it is an addiction!

Title: Re: First selfbow build
Post by: George Tsoukalas on October 09, 2015, 08:48:00 AM

mh, I'll let you in on a little secret but don't tell anyone.

We all had zero experience when we started.

My site may help you.

 http://traditionalarchery101.com/

Jawge

Title: Re: First selfbow build
Post by: inksoup on October 09, 2015, 09:27:00 AM

well... eric has warned you well...

run away while still you have time... but if you can not.. or not want to here is the link that can help a lot...

 http://poorfolkbows.com/

sam harper's site... he is one of the member here as well...

have fun mate.

welcome.

Title: Re: First selfbow build
Post by: John Scifres on October 09, 2015, 10:59:00 AM

http://sticknstring.webs.com/ferretsboardbow.htm

 http://hedgerowselfbows.webs.com/fromblanktobow.htm

Search "Tools" and "buildalong" here on the Bowyer's Benc.

Get the "Traditional Bowyer's Bible" Vol. I an II to start and then III and IV later.

Spend time on your craft especially actually working with wood every day.

Post progress and questions here.

Title: Re: First selfbow build
Post by: mikkekeswick on October 10, 2015, 03:06:00 AM

Buy the Traditional Bowyers Bibles vol 1 and 2.
You need go no further!

Title: Re: First selfbow build
Post by: Onehair on October 12, 2015, 04:52:00 PM

Don't start with your best piece of wood.