Cut them 54" long and 1 3/8" wide tip to tip. Once you get the sides cleaned up and the last 8-10" narrowed, you will be down to 1 1/4" wide or less, that's good. Keep the handle the same width as the bow. The thickness should start bending a bit at or around 5/8" thick, Id suggest a slight crown on the belly. The tips should be no wider than 1/2" when finished up. If you want to make the grip area more comfy? Glue some 1/4" thick cork about 4" long to the front and back. Then use a sanding block with 80 grit to transition the cork to the bow. Wrap it with leather and you'll have a slight bulbous grip that is comfy and can still bend with the handle.