first board first bow

[Dozuki]

I was looking at the so you want to build a board build along which was awesome.  So I went to my neighborhood home depot for the board and the only think I could find was a 1"x2"x8'.  The grain is nice and straight for most of the length so my question is just how thick should it be to draw around 50# at 28in.  I was trying for a 1x3 like was used in the build but this is what I have to work with so all advice and pointers would be appreciated.  Thanks

[PEARL DRUMS]

There is no sure fire recipe. Start an even taper towards the tips until it bends evenly and draws 50#. A good rule of thumb is about an 1/8" thickness taper to get started.

[4est trekker]

If you're following the pyramid design, you want an even thickness (I'd start at 1/2") and a straight line taper from fade to tip when viewing the bow's back.  Does that make sense?

[Dozuki]

Yes that makes sense and seems like a good place to start.  I will run it through the jointer till i hit a half inch and then taper it to half inch tips or maybe 3/4.  I can always take more off.  Like I have seen it is much harder to put the wood back on.  thanks for the tips.

[4est trekker]

You can't plane it first and then glue on a riser.  That will point your joint for the riser smack dab at the point where the bow will try to bend.  Thus, your riser will pop off and/or the bow will break.

[Dozuki]

Oh. I wish I had known that an hour ago.  So It should be full thickness where the riser is attached.  well back to the lumber store for another board.  Well live and learn.

[4est trekker]

Have you cut your handle to profile yet?  If not, you can get a lightweight bend-through-the-handle D bow out of it.

[Dozuki]

No I haven't cut it yet.  I don't mind a light bow. It is my first so as long as it doesn't blow up I will me happy.