Joe I've found that if I cut bamboo in 4' lengths with it being close to nock size on one end and point size on the other, it gives me room to work with the spine and not have an overly fat or skinny arrow when it is finished. Tape them all up together tight and store them out of the sun to start with but in a warm or hot place. They should be ready to go in about 2 to 3 weeks, depending on your climate.