Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: stuckinthemud on May 05, 2016, 08:00:32 am

Title: which type of silk for backing?
Post by: stuckinthemud on May 05, 2016, 08:00:32 am

Hi All,

does anyone use silk backing?  I went to a silk supplier and they sold satin silk, Indian and Chinese silk; does it matter which type?  There is a big price difference........... >:D

Title: Re: which type of silk for backing?
Post by: Pat B on May 05, 2016, 08:44:06 am

Cheap silk neck tie from Good Will!  ;)

Title: Re: which type of silk for backing?
Post by: George Tsoukalas on May 05, 2016, 09:08:11 am

I have. With 2 duaghters and a wife, I was able to use old silk dresses. I wrapped the seams with
thread set in glue.
http://traditionalarchery101.com/silk.html
Jawge

Title: Re: which type of silk for backing?
Post by: Grandpa Bill on May 05, 2016, 11:11:06 am

Silk ties from local thrift store.  Stretch them when you are putting them on

Title: Re: which type of silk for backing?
Post by: Sparky Buckwheat on May 05, 2016, 03:46:02 pm

I use silk noil (rough silk fabric).  If you get undyed noil and use epoxy, it dries almost clear (see through).  I always stretch it with a rough jig I made with a 2x6 and a ratcheting trailer tie down.  I stretch it before glue up and apply it under tension (for flatbows only so far).  I have a theory that if it is applied under tension, it may help support the back of the bow. Based on mention in the Bowyers Bible 1 of experiments done by Hickman with silk before WW2 and materials studies that suggest that silk/epoxy composites form a matrix similar to f****glass. 

Just my 1/2 cent.
SB