Thanks Marc.
ssrhythm-Any of the dogwood I have cut has been in the winter because thats when I have the best oppertunity to do so. But yes use the 1st ring under the bark just like any other white wood. The wood seems to have more dips, bumps, valleys and pin knots that can make things interesting so I suggest leaving staves a bit wide so you have some room to adjust the layout. Seal the ends right after cutting and splitting I use TBIII but any wood glue would work for that. I'd seal the exposed back with shallac especially if you cut during the growing season, but even in the winter. It seems to have a bit more character than you think under the bark. Hope that all made sense but I basically treated like any other white wood. I think a high crown is best for this wood, if you have a more flat piece or limb you could trap the back 1/8" each side.
If I were you I'd cut one now, Split, seal ends, and then remove the bark and seal backs. Then rough one of them out. Then come summer you could cut some more but that one you started on this winter could be ready to finish up this summer or sooner. I have read that dogwood will warp while drying but I did not find that to be a problem. there may be some internal stress in the wood that may show up right after splitting the staves out tho.
I'd aim for a final dimensions to be around 66 ntn with a max width between 1.75-2" for a bow if the stave allows but you could get away with less for a 26-28" draw with a stiff handle. I believe the max width on the bow I made was just over 1.75" and 63"ntn.
Good luck. Looking forward to see what you are able to make. If I missed anything, feel free to tell me to be more specific.
Mike
