Backing for a kids bow

[lpcjon2]

Hey,should a kids bow be backed with anything? and if yes what should it be and what do you guys use to seal the bow? This is my first time doing this and the bow was cut from a 1/4" x 2" red oak.It will only be like 14#@20-24" any help would be appreciated.Thanks   :confused:      

[lpcjon2]

Anyone Bueler, Bueler

[Chuck Hoopes]

Backing may or may not be neccessary- based on the quality of the stave (board) and the design of the bow, the quality of workmanship in its making,etc. etc.  The wider the limb the less susceptiable to breakage, how true the grain runs, the amt of poundage desired etc. etc.  Why not just back it w/ silk?  Its light, its organic, easy to do, and readily avaiable.  Just go to any Good Will store or factsimilie thereof, and find your self a silk tie, or shirt - whatever.  Glue it to the back with Titebond 3 and forget about it.  You can paint it, put designs on it whatever.  It will look great, and it will last.  Let the kid paint it with his own design.  Indian patterns look good, and are easy to paint.  I use acyrlic paint.  Paint the backing solid black, and then use yellow, white, red etc. for patterns.  With the Black background, yellow and red is quite striking.  Good luck.

[glenbo]

If this is a board bow I think it would depend on grain orientation.I do however feel that that backing adds a certian degree of insurance against breakage.I often use rawhide but for a bow that light perhaps some type of fabric would suffice.I am no expert,just my 2 cents .good luck,glen

[lpcjon2]

Thanks guys is titebond the only glue for the backing

[Chuck Hoopes]

No, but titebond 111 is the best.  Before applying backing,- thin some of the glue w/ a little water, and brush it on the wood-- let dry for 20-30min. than apply Non thinned glue, and lay the backing on.  Let dry over nite and trim the edges.  The inital thinned layer of glue is for sizing and creates a better bond overall.  It also will absorb into the wood a little more, adding strength-- its kind of a backing in itself.

[lpcjon2]

Do I put glue on the top of the linen after I set it.And can I urethane over the linen? I'm new to the building thing

[Chuck Hoopes]

I usually just paint it, than urethane, or min-wax poly to protect the paint, and keep moisture out.  Theres lots of ways to do it and they all work well-- don't fret over it, just use common sense-- it will be fine.

[lpcjon2]

Thanks Chuck