How to Make Native American Walking Sticks

Making a walking stick is enjoyable and rewarding. The stick offers support during hikes and is decorative while not in use.

Things You'll Need

  • Chest-high straight stick or branch
  • Saw
  • Knife
  • Sandpaper
  • Rags
  • Drill and bit
  • Leather cord or strap
  • Wood stain
  • Bucket or other container
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a chest-high straight branch 1.5 to 1.75 inches in diameter. Pine branches are a good choice. Saw off the uneven top off the stick to make it flat.

    • 2

      Strip the bark off the entire stick or just the handle area with a knife.

    • 3

      Sand the stick until it is smooth, occasionally using a wet rag to remove dust.

    • 4

      Drill a hole through the stick, two inches below the top, to loop the leather strap through.

    • 5

      Pour wood stain into a bucket or container. Use a rag or brush to apply the wood stain to the entire stick, then prop the stick up and let the stain dry for a couple of hours.

    • 6

      Loop the leather cord or strap through the hole at the top and tie it to form a loop.