make it how you like .. or how you want it to look, , usually sinew bows dont perform as well at longer lengths(yes it can be done with special tiller consideration),,, the sinew is heavy,, and to get the most from it,, bows that are about double the draw just shoot a little harder,,, if you put one or two layers to strengthen the back,, it will probably shoot fine like a good self bow,, but to gain performance from the sinew, the shorter bow is usually a better design,,,I get your point about wanting to save the character,,, so do what works best for you,,, thats what is fun about the wood bows, ,,, lots of options to consider and ponder,,