| |
|
|
|
The Rock and Stick
Some say man’s first invention was the rock used as a tool, but
some people believe the stick was used first to uproot the rocks. So
the debate goes on! Moses and the shepherds used their sticks and staffs
to herd their flocks, both people and sheep. Throughout history the
staff was the early symbol of leadership in the Church, and in most
organizations, the person with the big stick was the boss. “Walk
softly and carry a big stick” has even been the motto of several
worldly people. Today the stick is still a friend on the trail, always
there to lend support, leverage or to check the terrain ahead. Away
from the trail, studies indicate that the stick also lends support to
the lower back and knees. During daily walks the stick also provides
an added bonus of being a weapon to fend off wild dogs or other critters,
human or otherwise. In addition, a good-looking walking stick complements
those $125 walking shoes.
The Norm in walking Sticks
A bit of sanding, a dab of shellac, urethane, and drilling a hole for the wrist strap seems to be the norm when making a walking stick; however we don’t adhere to that approach. Each one of our individual sticks is treated in a special way. After all, it is intended to look great, draw attention in public and be functional.
Our Sticks
Our sticks are unique—no two sticks are alike so that each stick
has a personality of its own. In the process of stock selection we ensure
that each item of wood maintains its own rustic look without using expensive
laminated plywoods. Our sticks are all natural and eye-catching without
the multi-strip idea!
Several of our sticks have antique brass devices on top that make the
walking sticks attractive and unique. These brass devices may include
a hame(one of two curved/straight metal pieces of a horse harness that
fits around the neck of the animal); or a shiny brass bell (originally
to keep the bears away), but which also competes with the Salvation
Army bells at Christmas. Some sticks even have antique beer taps mounted
on the top of the stick.
For our unique finish, we use a special wet sanding process to ensure
that the grain and wood texture is not destroyed. We do not sand out
the flaws or imperfections in the wood, but make certain that each dent
or scratch is soothing to the eyes. Depending on the wood’s grain,
a provisional stain or a deep stain may be applied, followed by our
special shellacking process that encompasses several coats that are
allowed to air cool for a smooth finish. As a result, the grain is brought
forward, presenting an antique colonial wood appearance that shines
like glass and is pleasing to the eye.
