Applying Binding?

[bushman]

When you are applying a rawhide or sinew binding (exp. sinew for binding arrow heads and fletching to an arrows) do you glue it on or do you just soak it in water first then rap it tightly around what ever you are binding and let it dry tight? And what type of finish do you apply to it to waterproof it? Also if you are applying a snakeskin and or fish skin backing to a bow what do you use to waterproof it, tung oil? Thank

Bushman

[sailordad]

when i use sinew as a wrap i just chew it untill its soft and moist then wrap

[Pat B]

I do the same as sailordad. By chewing the sinew it mixes with your saliva and makes it's own glue. Won't do that just soaking it in water. After it is dry I usually use homemade pitch varnish to seal and water proof.   With rawhide I soak it in warm water first until soft, remove the excess water from it and use TiteBond glue to stick it to the bow...same with snake and fish skins.  When dry I use Tru-Oil, a gun stock finish, to seal the bow, skins, rawhide and all.