Hey everyone! I've been considering carving my own cane since I have mobility issues. I've done some carving in the past, but I really don't know much about different types of wood -- I usually just use scraps from contractors. Could anyone recommend good woods for making a sturdy cane? Also, where would I be able to find them? Just to clarify, I'm not looking for help with identifying trees or anything like that, so I hope this is okay to post here!
3 Answers
Using contractor scraps might not be the best idea since they're often softwoods. You’ll want hardwood for strength. If you want to make a traditional cane handle, consider bending the wood instead of carving it. Bending can be done by boiling or steaming the wood, shaping it around a form, and holding it in place to cool. It’ll be way more durable that way!
You might want to check out hickory for walking canes; it’s tough and durable. Personally, I love using crabapple for staffs because it grows straight and is invasive in my region, making it easy to find. Generally, you’ll want a hardwood for canes, as softwoods aren’t going to cut it. Just a heads-up, carving these woods with a knife can be a bit tricky, but power tools like rotary tools will make things easier. Oh, and definitely look up "Stinnett Sticks" on YouTube for more wood and tool recommendations!
I’ve made a few canes myself, and I usually use white oak, but red oak works too! Make sure the wood is straight-grained, as this will help with stability. Also, just a side note, canes are considered prosthetic devices, and using the wrong type could lead to injury, so keep that in mind! A well-designed cane can make a huge difference, so don’t hesitate to craft something functional and stylish!