Daisy on wood stickGirls walking stickI found two birch branches that had fallen this winter I thought were perfect for my sister’s grandkids. Two days ago the granddaughter visited and I confirmed the sticks were the right size. I spent time in the sun that day to carve her name on her walking stick then wood burned the background. I painted her name pink; color washed the background green and added a painted daisy. I used a new boot string for a hanger, coated the stick with a light pecan stain and used marine-grade polyurethane. With another coat her stick will be done and I’ll add a rubber tip.

Walking stick for a boyFish detail on boys walking stickThe boy’s I did yesterday. Again I carved his name, carved the background in a bass design (he likes to fish) and then wood burned the fish area to bring out his name better. I chose a blue color wash for the fish and metallic silver for his name. I added a compass design on the very top so he can learn his directions, then stained the birch a light cherry tone. I have yet to urethane it.

Compass directions on stickAlysa’s stick is about 34 inches long, which is a good length for the 5-year-old. Alex’s stick stands about 44 inches–he’s a few years older and taller. We should have fun romping through the trees with our walking sticks.

©2008 Stumpar Scribbles