Need some advice on elb profile.

[dbb]

I trimmed some staves of european bird or black cherry (Prunus padus) and got a slim sidesplit that i hope will make a light elb style bow.
Thing is i never made one  .
The wood is said to be good in compression but not so good in tension.
I was thinking to make it sqare in profile and maybe even trapping the belly a bit...
Am i thinking right here ?
If it make it to bowstatus it will be for one of my nieces,so it will be pretty light,between 30 and40# as i know she can handle that.
The stave is about 68" ttt and just under 1 1/4 wide.

/Mikael

[Hrothgar]

dbb, I don't know much about the wood, but after doing a search found out its in the same genus as plum, cherry, peaches and apricots. If you have managed to find a limb or stave big enough to use it should make a bow. You're dimensions sound about right, but it might be a good idea to back it with some type of material.

[Pat B]

I agree with Hrothgar. A simple backing of silk, linen or heavy paper(like grocery bag) will give enough protection for the tension weak wood. I amagine the draw length will be relatively short? For a 68" bow even 28" isn't overstressing the bow.
  I think a rectangular cross section would be better.

[dbb]

Thanks!
The wood is said to make good bows,but with wide limbs so i guess a backing may be needed on this narrow design.
Too bad as the back is very pretty.

/Mikael