Get ready for some stupid questions regarding string making

[Dave]

Been a long time since I asked any daft questions, I've been saving them up

Finally decided to take the plunge into making my own recurve strings. Ordered the jig, a ball of finest packing string, some cotton and a few other bits that I'm not entirely sure what they do but I'm sure they'll come in handy...

Anyone fancy warming it up with some do's and don'ts of string making?

[Snarkhunter]

Dave,

You could try http://www.mac.asn.au/string_making.htm or http://www.rfd.cc/endless/estring.html. Both are quite qood basic introductions, though the vary slightly in the methods used.

Good luck!

[bkupris]

Make both loops the same size.

[Schme1440]

Originally Posted by bkupris

Make both loops the same size.

is that a do or a dont? I dont so Its easier to tell the top loop.

[Tarkwin]

how do I place an order?

T.

[bkupris]

Originally Posted by Schme1440

is that a do or a dont? I dont so Its easier to tell the top loop.

Do make both loops the same size. Recommended by a top UK archer and coach.

[Field Archer]

Dave, here's a good site to help. http://www.mac.asn.au/string_making.htm

Lesson One
Practice a few times with some cheap materials. The objective is to get a string with very even tension on ALL strands. Wrap the string round the first post several times to secure it, carefully wind the string on to the jig, keeping the tension as even as possible, tie the two ends together. Now help to even out the strands by gently pulling on the long lengths a few times, then let it settle for a while, don't try to rush anything,

[Schme1440]

Originally Posted by bkupris

Do make both loops the same size. Recommended by a top UK archer and coach.

Interesting, I normally make the top loop about 15% bigger which also allows the string to slide over the top limb. I was never told that when I was on the team. Guess its the new staff.

[Dave]

Originally Posted by Tarkwin

how do I place an order?

T.

Best bet would be through Leighton, Tarks, it may be late but it's not likely to unravel on your first shot

[Murray]

Do -
o read the "how to"s.
o practice
o pay attention to strand tension - try to get them as even as possible
o Try to find a clamp to hold the jig to a low-ish bench - otherwise do it on the floor so you can use both hands and a foot (to hold the jig steady)!
o Feel free to ask more questions

Don't -
o expect the first few strings to be right
o listen to those who say the ends MUST be knotted.
o expect to make a string in under an hour
o give up... it's really very theraputic


Handy things to have:
o Good solid string jig which doesn't slip or bend
o Three hands and a prehensile tail (joking - just the three hands)

Enjoy!

[edit: I never make my loops the same size... never met anyone godlike enough to tell the difference.]