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ever use inner bark of basswood for backing?

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richpierce:
The inner bark of basswood is very tough and can be used for cordage- wonder if anyone ever used this for backing a bow?

Randy Black:
Hi,
 I've never tried basswood but I am currently working on a ERC bow that I backed with poplar inner bark.  This was some that I retted for making twine and a few of the pieces were wide enough that I thought I would try it as a backing.  I glued three layers to it using hide glue, letting each layer dry before I added the next.  I have the bow tillered and just need to finish sanding and sealing.  The backing is holding up fine so far.  Right now I am trying to decide what to use to seal it.  The only problem I have seen so far is the fibers on the edge seem like they might lift if something nicked it.  A good coating of polyurethane would probably help, but I am trying to keep it as natural as posible.  If you have any ideas, I would love to hear them.  Once I get it finished I will post some pictures.

Randy

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