dogwood as a self bow

[eman614]

a buddy of mine was clearing an old roadway today, and he cut down a couple of small dogwoods. they are about six and a half feet long, and about 2in in diameter at the small end. my question is would i have to back it, and what should i do before putting it up to dry?
thanks,eric

[Pat B]

Dogwood makes a good bow. The wood is heavy but very strong. If you can split the poles and seal the ends that will allow it to dry without checking. You can leave then in the round and not seal the ends. You will get some end checks but at 6 1/2' long you should be able to remove the checked ends and still have enough length to build a bow.
  Another option would be to take the pole down to almost bow size, remove the bark and seal the back and ends(I like shellac to seal wood but carpenters glue will work also). This will allow it to season out quicker. You should probably clamp it to a form so it doesn't twist while drying.

[eman614]

thanks pat. if i leave it round should i leave the bark on or take it off?

[Pat B]

I wouldn't take the bark off unless I split it and then seal the back. The moisture needs some place to escape and the belly side is the safest place to let it out. If stored properly you should be ready to begin work in a few months.