Arkansas Cane for backing

[Ronbow]

In Arkansas, we have stands of small diameter cane. This is probably a newbie question, but is it possible to split this cane into small strips, and glue the strips on for backing? Has anyone done this? I am not sure about the look but I would think long strips would work as sell as a single piece, as long as they are glued tightly together.

[HoBow]

That'll work- they talk about it in the TBB (can't remember which one).

[Ronbow]

Thanks jeffutley57 ,  just had to ask. I hope some other folks can give some more info and or advice. I know I am going to have to do this. I just have to try what is at hand, you know? and it being all natuaral and local, well can't pass that up.

[aero86]

there was a post about this maybe a month ago?  guy posted a bow that was backed with cane strips, or maybe bamboo.  there were pics showing how they got the  strips.

[Ronbow]

Hey thanks guys, for the replie. Any idea on how to find that post? I am unable to come up with it.

[Thwackaddict]

Here ya go ron,this should get ya started in the right direction.In the post is a link to his pic album.He used boo,but no reason cane shouldnt work.  http://www.primitivearcher.com/smf/index.php/topic,20540.0.html

[hedgeapple]

I missed the post of the laminated cane strips, also.  Pondering out loud--why couldn't you use a 3/4" inch strip of cane or bamboo down the center of an 1 1/2 limb tapering in with the taper of the limb?

[M-P]

Hi Folks,   Years ago I made an ash pyramid style bow that was backed with multiple thin, narrow bamboo strips.  I still have it hanging on the rack.  It looks distinctive and always gets comments when I take it out.  I did it when I was just starting bow making and could only find narrow bamboo poles.  I think your cane should work well.  The only problem would be getting the strips straight edged and of even thickness.
Ron

[waterlogged]

Yep, the bow Thwackaddict linked to was one of mine. If you scroll down, I also showed a couple of pictures detailing how I got the strips off the poles.

If you have any questions, feel free to post them or PM me, I'm around on and off. I think with a bit of optimization the technique could become a legitimate contender to the traditional backing. Just remember to have your cane good and dry before starting, I recall reading (maybe TBB) that wet bamboo and the like will take set in tension, robing performance.

Good luck, and keep us posted either way.