How to make a Walking Stick
Here is an extra project that you can make at home with your parents.
1st. Cut a green willow stick. The distance around or circumference of the willow stick should be around 8 cm, about the size of a loonie. Look for a straight stick with good markings on it. Measure it so that it is no taller than under your arm pit.
2nd. Peel the bark off of it. If your willow is green the bark should just peel right off. If you can't peel the bark, you will have to peel it off with a knife. Always have an adult with you when you are peeling with a knife. Hold the stick down on the ground and always peel down towards the ground. Never peel up! At this point let your stick dry before you sand it.
3rd. Sand your stick with sand paper. You should sand the willow until it is almost white and feels like velvet. It takes a long time but worth the effort.
4th. Drill a hole at the top of the stick. This part is for an adult to do.
5th. Decorate your stick. You can do this with paint or Sharpie markers. Be sure to create beautiful patterns and add lots of colour. You can always add your name and the date. Have fun!
6th. Paint your stick with a clear varathane wood stain to protect your stick.
7th. Add a piece of leather string or rope to your handle.
8th. Enjoy! You are now ready to go hiking!
Have fun on your walking adventures :)
1st. Cut a green willow stick. The distance around or circumference of the willow stick should be around 8 cm, about the size of a loonie. Look for a straight stick with good markings on it. Measure it so that it is no taller than under your arm pit.
2nd. Peel the bark off of it. If your willow is green the bark should just peel right off. If you can't peel the bark, you will have to peel it off with a knife. Always have an adult with you when you are peeling with a knife. Hold the stick down on the ground and always peel down towards the ground. Never peel up! At this point let your stick dry before you sand it.
3rd. Sand your stick with sand paper. You should sand the willow until it is almost white and feels like velvet. It takes a long time but worth the effort.
4th. Drill a hole at the top of the stick. This part is for an adult to do.
5th. Decorate your stick. You can do this with paint or Sharpie markers. Be sure to create beautiful patterns and add lots of colour. You can always add your name and the date. Have fun!
6th. Paint your stick with a clear varathane wood stain to protect your stick.
7th. Add a piece of leather string or rope to your handle.
8th. Enjoy! You are now ready to go hiking!
Have fun on your walking adventures :)