Pool Cue Making

For a pool player who is serious about improving his game or competing professionally, owning a cue that has been custom made is essential to success. Making that cue yourself can add a level of satisfaction and enjoyment to the game; not only will your skill improve, but you can remind yourself that you constructed the tool that has enabled you to come so far on your journey to professional pool playing.

  1. Materials

    • To build your own pool cue, you will need access to a lathe. A lathe is woodworking tool that holds materials in place and spins them to allow easier and even access for cutting, sanding, drilling and painting. Lathes can be found in most woodworking shops; they can also be purchased from hardware specialty stores or previous owners. If purchasing a secondhand lathe, check that all of the parts are attached and in working order; a lathe with a missing or broken spindle or clamps would be virtually useless when constructing your pool cue.

      The ideal wood for a pool cue is a hardwood like maple, ivory or ebony. The grain of the wood should be as straight as possible; grain run-off can cause warping in the wood that would change the way the stick strikes the ball. When acquiring materials, you also will want to acquire a screw joint at a hardware store.

      You may want some felt to help cushion the joints of your cue. Pieces of ivory are often used to adorn the butt of a pool cue, and you will need a tip to attach to your cue. You can wrap string or leather around the handle of your pool cue for a better grip, based on your preferences.

    Construction

    • In general, there are two sections to a pool cue: the handle and the shaft. Generally, these two pieces are joined together by a screw in the middle, though hand-carved cues have been made in one piece by experienced woodworkers and carvers. Measurements for these pieces will vary, depending on your height and arm span. Measure and cut your wood accordingly into two sections that are the same length. The piece of wood for the shaft should taper toward the end that will strike the ball; generally, the end that strikes the ball will be about three millimeters thinner. The measuring tape and rulers on the lathe should help with this. Sand all wooden pieces to ensure smoothness; you can apply varnish or finish to the stick, depending on the look you are going for.

      Once the wood is cut, drill holes into each for the screw joint. Use wood glue or another such adhesive to secure the joint into the drill holes. You can pad the holes with felt to lessen the stress on the joint when the stick strikes the ball. Remember that the adhesive will need time to set and dry.

      Attach the tip with another screw joint to the tapered end of the shaft; again, you can insulate this with felt if you want to. If you choose to add ivory or a wrapping for the handle, do this last.