my first bow has begun

[Sidewinder]

Well, I started my first bow yesterday and already I have learned a lot. Not having anything other than hand tools and never having used any of them I am pleased thus far with all that I have learned. It is a hickory backed cherry flatbow. 62" hopefully will come in at 47# at 26". I have gotten it to the point where I have begun tillering and have it on the long string. It appears that when I was reducing the sides for the side taper, I started out using the draw knife and it looks as if I tore a little too deep on one edge so we shall see if she holds up. But if it doesn't thats OK because its all a learning curve anyway. I found I really like the spoke shave for the side taper, instead of the draw knife. It really worked well and I think I may use that for the belly taper next time as well. I will keep posting my progress until its done and hopefully I will have something to show by the end of the week.

[Loki]

Your further ahead than me,i started my first one yesterday too but i wont be doing anymore untill the weekend.Mines a 70" long Hickory,2" fades at the widest going to 1/2" nocks,i figure long and fat makes less chance of me snapping the bugger! .I've got a Bamboo backing for it but i havent decided if i want to put it on yet,i think it would be better as a selfbow.

Andy

[Marc St Louis]

Make sure you keep the belly flat or it will chrysal on you. Also thin the Hickory down and round it down to take some stress from the Cherry

[mitchman]

what do you mean by chrystal on ya.

[Sidewinder]

Marc, I will do as you say. I have seen your work and trust your judgement. Is the idea that you  don't want the hickory to overpower the belly?