Burlap backing

[Lee Lobbestael]

Hey guys, any of you have any experience with burlap backing? I have used it once on a hickory bow that did not really need the help so I don't know how well it would hold the back of a bow together. I'm currently making a red oak self bow and my instinct is telling me to back it with something. I have a bunch of burlap laying around and would like to use it. Does it work well as a backing?

[John Scifres]

It will probably work but there are better choices.  For backing you need the strength to run the length of the bow.  Half of burlap's mass run's across the limbs and is therefore wasted.  By the time you lay it in a matrix of glue, it will slow your bow down more than needed.  If you use it, stretch the heck out of it before and while applying.

Silk is better.  Go to a thrift store and get a silk shirt or dress.  Paisley and floral patterns are nice  

[ChristopherO]

I agree with John.  Too heavy for a great backing.  Have you thought of brown sack paper?  Once glued on it is really tough and makes a good medium for decoration.

[hova]

why not de-wweave burlap and lay it down like sinew...


i thought of doing this , but separating the fibers of the burlap in half so it didnt make too much of a bulge...

-hov

[fujimo]

ttt