Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: richpierce on July 19, 2007, 02:03:45 pm

Title: ever use inner bark of basswood for backing?
Post by: richpierce on July 19, 2007, 02:03:45 pm

The inner bark of basswood is very tough and can be used for cordage- wonder if anyone ever used this for backing a bow?

Title: Re: ever use inner bark of basswood for backing?
Post by: Randy Black on July 19, 2007, 05:47:23 pm

Hi,
 I've never tried basswood but I am currently working on a ERC bow that I backed with poplar inner bark.  This was some that I retted for making twine and a few of the pieces were wide enough that I thought I would try it as a backing.  I glued three layers to it using hide glue, letting each layer dry before I added the next.  I have the bow tillered and just need to finish sanding and sealing.  The backing is holding up fine so far.  Right now I am trying to decide what to use to seal it.  The only problem I have seen so far is the fibers on the edge seem like they might lift if something nicked it.  A good coating of polyurethane would probably help, but I am trying to keep it as natural as posible.  If you have any ideas, I would love to hear them.  Once I get it finished I will post some pictures.

Randy