A walking stick is one of the most useful tools for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re hiking, scouting, or just exploring the woods, it can serve you in many ways. It offers support when going uphill and acts as a brake when descending. You can use it to test the ground or the depth of a creek, clear spider webs or thick brush, or even as a defensive tool in case of an emergency. With a little modification, a spearhead can even be attached to it.
Choosing the Right Stick
To begin your project, find a stick that suits your height. A good rule of thumb is to choose one that reaches around chest height, though some prefer a longer stick. Mine, for instance, reaches up to my shoulder — it’s all a matter of personal preference. As a guide, bend your arm at a 45-degree angle and hold the stick; this should give you a good sense of the ideal length.
Your stick should be at least one inch thick and made from green hardwood, not dead wood. Let it dry naturally for two weeks to a month, depending on its thickness. Good wood choices include oak, hickory, cedar, ash, or similar hardwoods. My personal walking stick is made from olive wood. Try to select a stick that’s as straight as possible — but if it’s slightly curved, hanging it vertically while drying will help it straighten a bit.
Preparing the Wood
The next step is to remove the bark. You can do this before drying, which is my usual preference. A sharp knife — ideally with a Scandi grind — works perfectly for this job.
Once debarked, it’s time to sand the stick. Start with 100-grit sandpaper to remove rough knots and shape the surface. Run it over the stick a couple of times, paying extra attention to knot areas. Follow with 200-grit for finer smoothing, then finish with 400-grit sandpaper for a silky finish. You can also slightly round the edges of the stick for a more comfortable grip.
Staining and Finishing
Before staining, you can add decorations such as pyrography designs if you wish. For the finish, I used boiled linseed oil, though tung oil is also an excellent and food-safe option.
Here’s my process:
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Apply a coat of oil evenly along the stick.
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Let it dry completely.
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Lightly sand with 400-grit paper to remove any raised fibers.
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Repeat this process 3–4 times in total for a rich, natural finish.
After staining, it’s time to apply a protective coating. I prefer beeswax, which offers a waterproof seal and slightly darkens the wood, giving it a rustic and natural look.
Adding a Grip (Optional)
The final touch is optional — the grip. You can wrap it with paracord, leather strips, bank line, or any material you like. I chose to sew a leather grip for mine, which gives it both comfort and character.
Final Thoughts
The process of crafting your own walking stick is deeply satisfying. It takes time, patience, and a bit of effort, but the result is worth every minute. There’s a special joy in holding something you’ve shaped with your own hands — a piece that’s both functional and personal.
If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend it. Start your own walking stick project — you’ll not only create a useful tool but also enjoy a rewarding experience along the way.