Paper Backed Longbow

[4est trekker]

This evening we had a benefit silent auction at the school where I teach.  The bow I was going to donate (an osage flatbow) needed some straightening, so wasn't ready in time.  So, I donated this one instead.  It's red oak backed with stained brown paper.  68.5" overall, 67" ntn, 2 1/4" at the fades tapering to under a half inch at the tips, glue-on reflexed tips, 1/4" unstrung string follow settling to just a touch of reflex at the tips, 46#@28", figured maple tip overlays, sealed with 7 coats paste wax followed by 2 coats Birchwood-Casey Gunstock Wax,  12 strand B-50 string.  (Someday when I'm rich I'll buy some Fast Flight string! )

The guy who had the winning bid was thrilled.  He's the parent of one of my students.  We've got plans to meet, get it set up for him, and do some shooting together.  

   

   

   

   

   

   

[Ricker]

That sure is a good looker Curt.  I bet the winning bidder cannot hardly wait to shoot it.

[WestTexan]

Nice bow....like your style. I've got on just like that ready for the tree...limbs seem a little stiff but maybe not they are .560 thick. I haven't cut a shelf or shaped the handle yet. It's gonna be a lefty for a friend, hope to get around 50# out of it.

[bjansen]

Thats a nice one 4est.  I really like how you stained the paper backing.

[NEProf]

What kind of paper is it, and where can it be purchased? Never thought that paper would make a nice looking backing - until now!

[lt-m-grow]

Can I bid yet?  :-)   Very nice.

I am a lurker on the bowyer's bench and hoping one day to take building a bow on.   I am not ready yet but soon and I am really enjoying you threads.  Thanks!   Dave.

[4est trekker]

NEProf: The paper is the brown paper that comes in rolls and is sold in the aisle with the shipping boxes, envelopes, bubble wrap, etc.  You can buy it at Target, Wal-Mart, Office Max, Office Depot, etc.

[Magnum in Ms]

Did you stain the paper before or after it was put on the bow?

[George Tsoukalas]

I like the looks of the paper! Jawge

[4est trekker]

Thanks, George!  Magnum, I glue the paper on, leaving it extra wide and long.  When the glue is dried and cured, I stain and seal the paper.  Then I take a file, and in the process of rounding the edges of the back trim the paper flush.  Sandpaper cleans the edge up, followed by steel wool.