Over the slow winter period I have busied myself making more Bank Sticks.
Not having access to split cane i have for a number of years been using Garden Canes. I select a suitable thickness and cut to the necessary lenght paying attention to ensure I have about five or six inches above a node for the top of the stick. I then whip, using strong thread, below the node. This is extra insurance to make sure that when I split the cane above the split doea not continue below. Try to acheive an even half and half split. Using a piece of wood I cut a triangle and shape it to insert in the inner curve of the cane and carefully push down until the requisite width is acheived. Clean in the inner "fuzz" away and then glue it into place. The two arms are then whipped with thread or string to give protection to the rod surfaces.
At this point I "flame" the cane. The bottom end is finished with a piece of dowel. wood or metal for extra strenght. At this point i use my old ends of whipping thread to "decorate the shaft".
Finally i paint the bottom with "Hammerite" black paint, this gives added wear and a coupkle of coats of yacht varnish finishes the whole bank stick. These last well and only need a repaint of the bottom even couple of years. I do add an elastic band to the top for adjustment.
Have a look at the photos.
Time well spent, memories remembered and future forays anticipated.
Mike
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