Earlier I posted a thread asking for advice on how to fix my first Osage Selfbow and believe that I've discovered something about myself... namely that I don't know how to build a bow! I think I'll be able to chase a ring down (and get past the worm holes) next time but I'm really not sure about tillering and how to decide on a profile. I know that the bow has to be made thinner from front to back, and I know that the width tapers down as they near the ends. How do you know when to taper, and when to remove wood from the belly? Can anyone link a GOOD video that shows how to do this?

Clay Hays YouTube videos are great and also Rattlestick by Gary Davis was a huge help for me. I bought Rattlestick from 3 Rivers

This tool will take some of the mystery out of tillering a bow but you have to start a proper bow layout and floor tillering.

Here is a how to video on using a tillering gizmo.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqvwUqn-EFQ&t=1s

I just watched the tillering gizmo video and it helped a ton. Very simple stuff... but stuff I didn't know. Thanks.

Haven't had time to watch Clay Hays yet but will soon.

Never tiller without the Gizmo. >>>>-----> Ken

You can learn by doing. There were no videos years ago so we learned from books and by making savings. There were also no web sites to speak of and so I started my site. http://traditionalarchery101.com Jawge

another option is to go to the primitive archer site. those guys can help you tiller from pics you post. some will do the same here as well. that along with Mr krewsons tillering gizmo will get you a suitable bow and put you well on your way

Along with what has already been mentioned check out swiftwood bows on Youtube. Weylin explains the bow making process well. A gizmo works great and the more you practice the better you'll become. Good luck with your selfbow adventure.

After I made the video I realize just how much I left out. Be sure to read the comments section for the bow making tips I left out of the video.

PM me your address and I will send you a Gizmo, complete with instructions, I keep a few extra on hand.

Eric, I didn't realize the gizmo video was "your" video and gizmo. Thanks again for posting the link as I got a lot from it. I greatly appreciate your offer of sending me one. Maybe I can buy one from ya... I'll send a message.

I'm also getting a lot from the Clay Hays series. Only had time to watch the first segment but it was good. I hope to make it through the other two video's this weekend if I can scrape out some time.

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