How to Make a Wood Staff

Saw the ends of the dried sapling off so that the length of the stick is 5 foot, six inches. Sand both ends thoroughly, rounding the top end. Keep the bottom end completely straight. Strip off the bark using a locking knife. Pay special attention to any knots in the wood. You may have to sand those down as the bark will be hard to remove from them with the knife.

Sand the entire length of the walking stick, so that the wood is smooth and pale. Use a black marker to indicate each foot on the stick. At the top end, mark every inch off for the last six inches. These markings will help you gauge the depth of mud puddles and wading rivers on your walks.

Draw your whittling designs on the stick in pencil first, then take the knife to the sketches. Keep the width of the stick at about half an inch at its thinnest, despite your carvings. Slice the pencil markers first, then pare shavings off the stick, using a curved flick of your wrist. Apply a lot of pressure so that the movement is smooth and doesn't hiccup over the wood. Keep your fingers clear of the blade.

Sand over the whittled designs, smoothing all areas. Treat the stick with oil stain and allow it to dry for at least a day before using it. The stain will preserve the markings and strengthen the wood.