Making your own bow string is a rewarding experience that can save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned archer, making your own bow string is a fun and easy way to get involved in the sport. Plus, you can customize your bow string to the perfect length and thickness for your bow.
With a few simple tools and materials, you can easily follow this step-by-step guide to make a bow string. But before you begin, there are a few things you need to know about bow strings. First, the material used to make a bow string is called “serving.” Serving is a strong, thin thread that is wrapped around the bow string to protect it from wear and tear. Second, the length of the bow string is determined by the length of the bow you are using. To determine the correct length for your bow string, you can use the following formula: bow length + 4 inches. Finally, the thickness of the bow string is determined by the weight of the bow you are using. For a bow that weighs up to 30 pounds, a thickness of 0.018 inches is recommended. For a bow that weighs between 30 and 50 pounds, a thickness of 0.021 inches is recommended. For a bow that weighs over 50 pounds, a thickness of 0.024 inches is recommended.
Once you have gathered your materials and determined the correct length and thickness for your bow string, you can begin the process of making it. The following step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of making a bow string. First, you will need to cut the serving to the correct length. Next, you will need to wrap the serving around the bow string, starting at one end and working your way to the other end. As you wrap the serving, be sure to keep it tight and even. Once you have wrapped the serving around the bow string, you will need to tie it off at the end. Finally, you will need to stretch the bow string to the correct length and thickness. To do this, you can use a bowstring stretcher or a simple weight. Once the bow string is stretched, you will need to let it rest for a few hours before using it.
Selecting the Right Material
The foundation of your bow string is the material you choose. To ensure an optimal shooting experience, careful consideration is paramount. Different materials offer distinct advantages and drawbacks, affecting the string’s performance, longevity, and overall feel. Here’s a detailed analysis of the most common options:
Natural Fibers
- Hemp: A strong and durable natural fiber, hemp is known for its resistance to moisture and UV damage. However, it tends to stretch over time, requiring frequent re-tuning.
- Silk: The most expensive natural fiber, silk boasts exceptional smoothness and elasticity. It reduces friction and enhances arrow speed but is prone to fraying and wear.
- Linen: A sturdy and resilient fiber, linen offers a good balance of strength and stretch resistance. It’s less moisture-resistant than hemp but has a longer lifespan.
Synthetic Fibers
- Polyester (Dacron): The most widely used synthetic material, polyester combines high strength, durability, and low stretch. It’s weather-resistant, but its slippery texture can hinder serving adhesion.
- Kevlar: Known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, Kevlar is highly resistant to stretching and wear. However, it’s expensive and requires special techniques for splicing.
- Spectra: A high-performance synthetic fiber, Spectra is renowned for its extreme strength and resistance to creep. It’s costly but offers unmatched durability.
The best material for your bow string depends on your specific requirements. Consider factors such as the type of bow, shooting style, and desired performance characteristics to make an informed decision.
Preparing the Serving
The serving is a critical component of a bowstring, as it protects the string from wear and tear and helps to keep it in tune. To prepare the serving, you will need the following materials:
Materials:
- Serving thread
- Serving jig
- Scissors
- Lighter
Steps:
- Determine the length of serving you need. The serving should be long enough to cover the area of the string that will be in contact with the nock and the arrow rest. To determine the length, measure the distance between the nock and the arrow rest, and add an extra 1 inch to each end.
- Wind the serving onto the string. Using the serving jig, wind the serving thread onto the string, starting at one end and working your way to the other. Keep the serving tight and even, and make sure that the threads do not overlap.
- Secure the serving. Once the serving is tight, use a lighter to melt the ends of the thread. This will help to prevent the serving from unraveling.
- Trim the serving. Use scissors to trim the excess serving thread from the ends of the string.
Apply tension to the serving. Once the serving is wound onto the string, apply tension to it by pulling on the ends. This will help to tighten the serving and prevent it from slipping. You can use a serving tension tool or simply use your hands.
The following table provides a summary of the steps involved in preparing the serving:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Determine the length of serving you need. |
| 2 | Wind the serving onto the string. |
| 3 | Apply tension to the serving. |
| 4 | Secure the serving. |
| 5 | Trim the serving. |
Attaching the Nocking Point
The nocking point is a small, raised bump on the string that serves as a reference point for placing the arrow. It ensures that the arrow is always drawn to the same length, resulting in consistent and accurate shots. To attach the nocking point, follow these detailed steps:
1. Determine the Nocking Point Height
The height of the nocking point is typically measured from the arrow rest to the nock of the arrow. The ideal height varies depending on the archer’s style and equipment. Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations or consult with an experienced archer for guidance.
2. Mark the Nocking Point Location
Once the height is determined, mark the exact location on the string using a fine-tipped marker. Ensure the mark is centered and perpendicular to the string. You can use a bow square or a piece of masking tape to aid in precise placement.
3. Install the Nocking Point
There are several methods for attaching the nocking point:
- Serving Technique: This involves tightly winding a thin thread around the string at the marked location. Use a serving tool or a winding machine to apply multiple wraps, creating a small bump.
- Knot Tie-Off: A small knot can be tied around the string using a high-tensile thread. Ensure the knot is secure and sits snugly against the string without any gaps.
- Nocking Point Insert: Pre-made nocking point inserts are available in various sizes. Lightly moisten the string and slide the insert onto the marked location. The adhesive will bond with the string, creating a raised bump.
Tying the Bowstring Loop
Tying the bowstring loop is a critical step in making a bowstring. The loop is what attaches the bowstring to the bow, and it must be tied securely to prevent the bowstring from slipping off. There are several different ways to tie a bowstring loop, but the most common method is the Flemish twist.
To tie a Flemish twist, start by making a small loop in one end of the bowstring. The loop should be about 2 inches long. Then, take the other end of the bowstring and pass it through the loop. Pull the end of the bowstring tight to make a knot.
Next, take the end of the bowstring that is coming out of the knot and wrap it around the standing part of the bowstring. Make 3-5 wraps, depending on the thickness of the bowstring. Be sure to keep the wraps tight and even.
Once you have made the wraps, take the end of the bowstring and pass it through the loop that you made in step 1. Pull the end of the bowstring tight to make another knot. The Flemish twist is now complete.
Here are the steps in more detail:
- Make a small loop in one end of the bowstring. The loop should be about 2 inches long.
- Take the other end of the bowstring and pass it through the loop. Pull the end of the bowstring tight to make a knot.
- Take the end of the bowstring that is coming out of the knot and wrap it around the standing part of the bowstring. Make 3-5 wraps, depending on the thickness of the bowstring. Be sure to keep the wraps tight and even.
- Take the end of the bowstring and pass it through the loop that you made in step 1. Pull the end of the bowstring tight to make another knot. The Flemish twist is now complete.
Tips for Tying a Flemish Twist
- Use a bowstring that is the correct diameter for your bow. A bowstring that is too thick or too thin will not tie securely.
- Make sure that the wraps are tight and even. Loose wraps will cause the bowstring to slip.
- If you are having trouble tying a Flemish twist, you can use a bowstring jig. A bowstring jig will help you to make a neat and secure loop.
Adjusting the Loop Length
Once you have equal strands on both sides, you need to adjust the loop length to match the distance between the nocking points on your bow. To do this, measure the distance between the nocking points and divide it by 2. This will give you the length of each loop. Mark this length on both strands of the string, using a pen or marker.
Next, tie a small loop in one of the strands, about 1/4 inch from the mark. This loop will be used to attach the string to the bow. Tie another loop in the other strand, the same distance from the mark. The two loops should be facing each other.
Now, take the strand with the loop that will be attached to the top nocking point and pass it through the bottom loop. Then, take the strand with the loop that will be attached to the bottom nocking point and pass it through the top loop. Pull both strands tight to create a knot. This knot will form the serving, which is what holds the loop in place.
Repeat this process for the other side of the string. Once both loops are tied, you can adjust the length of the string by sliding the knots up or down on the strands. Make sure that the loops are the same length, and that the string is taut.
Once you have adjusted the loop length, you can attach the string to the bow. To do this, simply loop the small loop on one end of the string over the top nocking point, and the small loop on the other end of the string over the bottom nocking point. Pull both strands tight to secure the string.
|
Distance between nocking points |
Length of each loop |
|---|---|
|
28 inches |
14 inches |
|
30 inches |
15 inches |
Joining the Strands
Once you have the strands twisted and sized, you need to join them together. There are a few different ways to do this, but the most common method is to use a serving thread.
To serve the strands, you will need a piece of serving thread that is about twice the length of the bow string. Fold the serving thread in half and loop it around the end of one of the strands.
Wrap the serving thread around the two strands, keeping the wraps tight and even. Wrap the serving thread for about 1 inch, then tie it off with a square knot.
Repeat the process with the other end of the bow string.
Once the strands are served, you will need to finish the bow string by adding a loop to each end. You can do this by tying a bowline knot in each end of the string.
To tie a bowline knot, follow these steps:
- Make a small loop in the end of the string.
- Pass the end of the string through the loop.
- Pull the end of the string tight.
- Repeat steps 1-3 to create a second loop.
- Pass the end of the string through the second loop.
- Pull the end of the string tight.
Once you have tied the bowline knots, your bow string is finished.
| Serving Thread | Length |
|---|---|
| Serving thread is a thin, strong thread that is used to bind the strands of a bow string together. | The serving thread should be about twice the length of the bow string. |
Applying Twist
Once you have measured and cut your string, it’s time to apply the twist. Twisting the string gives it the elasticity and strength it needs to withstand the force of the bow. To twist the string, you can use a twisting tool, a drill, or a manual method.
Manual Method:
- Hank the String: Form a continuous loop with the string and lay it on a flat surface.
- Divide into Halves: Separate the loops into two distinct bundles, one on each side.
- Twist the Halves: Hold the ends of each bundle together and twist them clockwise or counterclockwise for several revolutions.
- Interlace the Halves: Bring the twisted bundles together and interlace them, forming a single, twisted string.
- Re-Hank and Twist: Repeat steps 2-4 until the desired amount of twist is achieved.
- Seal the Twist: Once the twist is applied, tie both ends of the string together to secure it.
Table of Twist Options
| Twist Method | Description |
|---|---|
| 2 or 3-ply | Two or three bundles of string twisted together |
| Serving | Thin string wrapped around the main string to protect it |
| Flemish Twist | Multiple bundles of string twisted and interlaced for added strength |
7. **Test the Twist:** Before using the string on your bow, test the twist by pulling on it. It should have a slight stretch and not break easily. If it’s too tight or loose, adjust the twist accordingly.
Finalizing the Bowstring
Once you have finished braiding the strands, you can proceed to finalize the bowstring. This involves adding serving and indexing the string.
Serving the Bowstring
Serving is the process of wrapping thread or twine around the center of the bowstring to protect it from wear and increase its durability. To serve the bowstring, you will need the following materials:
- Serving thread or twine
- Bowstring serving jig or a piece of masking tape
- Start by wrapping the serving thread around the center of the bowstring about 1 inch below the nocking points.
- Pull the thread tight and wrap it around the bowstring in a close, even pattern.
- Wrap the thread for the desired length, which is usually about 2 inches.
- Tie off the serving thread securely by wrapping it around the end of the serving and then passing it through the loop you created.
- A length of bowstring material. This can be made from a variety of materials, such as Dacron, B-50, or Fast Flight.
- A serving thread. This is a thin, strong thread that is used to wrap around the ends of the bowstring to prevent fraying.
- A bowstring jig. This is a tool that helps to keep the bowstring in place while you are winding it.
- A pair of pliers.
- A tape measure.
Indexing the Bowstring
Indexing the bowstring involves marking the center of the string so that you can align it properly on the bow. To index the bowstring, you can use a bowstring indexing tool or simply measure 1/2 of the total length of the bowstring and mark it with a piece of thread or permanent marker.
Additional Knots and Loops
Depending on the type of bow and string you are using, you may need to add additional knots or loops to the bowstring. For example, some bows require a Flemish twist or a D-loop to attach the string to the bow. These knots and loops are beyond the scope of this article, but there are many resources available online that can guide you through these techniques.
Measuring and Adjusting the Bowstring
Once you have finalized the bowstring, you need to measure and adjust it to the correct length. To do this, you will need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific bow you are using. Generally, you will need to measure the distance between the nocking points on the bow and then cut the bowstring to that length. You may need to adjust the length slightly to fine-tune the performance of the bow.
Waxing and Conditioning
Waxing
Waxing your bow string is crucial for protecting it from wear and tear, reducing noise and vibration, and improving its performance. Here’s how to do it:
1. Clean the string by wiping it down with a clean cloth.
2. Apply a thin coat of bowstring wax to the string using a rag or a wax applicator.
3. Rub the wax into the string thoroughly, ensuring it reaches all the strands.
4. Allow the wax to soak into the string for a few hours or overnight.
5. Buff off any excess wax using a clean cloth.
Conditioning
Conditioning your bow string helps to keep it supple and prevent it from drying out. Follow these steps:
1. Apply a dedicated bow string conditioner to the string.
2. Let the conditioner soak into the string for the recommended time indicated by the manufacturer.
3. Wipe off any excess conditioner using a clean cloth.
9. Advanced Waxing Techniques for Optimal String Performance
For seasoned archers seeking enhanced bow string performance, consider the following advanced waxing techniques:
| Technique | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Double Waxing | Protects string against moisture and provides exceptional durability. |
| “Serving Saver” Wax | Specially formulated to protect the bow string’s serving from abrasion. |
| Temperature-Specific Wax | Optimizes string performance in varying temperature conditions. |
| Custom Blends | Allows you to blend different types of wax to tailor to your specific bow and shooting style. |
Testing and Tuning
Checking Knot Strength
Tie a temporary knot at the center of the string and hang a 50-pound weight from it.
The knot should hold the weight for at least 10 minutes. If it slips, the string is not strong enough.
Determining Length
String length is critical for bow performance.
Use a bow square to mark the nocking point on the string and then measure the distance to the arrow nock.
This is the minimum length required.
Twisting the String
The string’s thickness and stretch can be adjusted by twisting it.
Twist clockwise to decrease thickness and stretch.
Twist counterclockwise to increase thickness and stretch.
Fine Tuning the Pitch
The string’s pitch should be about the same as the bow’s musical note.
Use a pitch meter or guitar tuner to check the pitch.
If the pitch is too high, twist the string clockwise.
If it’s too low, twist counterclockwise.
Adding Serving
Serving is a thin thread wrapped around the string at the nocking point to protect it from wear.
Use a serving tool or thread and wrap tightly.
Finishing Touches
Trim any excess string and heat seal the ends to prevent fraying.
Let the string stretch for a few hours before using it to allow the twists to settle.
Testing on the Bow
Once the string is complete, install it on the bow and check its performance.
The bow should shoot arrows accurately and consistently.
If necessary, adjust the string length, twist, or serving until optimal performance is achieved.
| Testing and Tuning | Steps |
|---|---|
| Checking Knot Strength | Tie a temporary knot at the center of the string and hang a 50-pound weight from it. The knot should hold the weight for at least 10 minutes. |
| Determining Length | Use a bow square to mark the nocking point on the string and then measure the distance to the arrow nock. |
| Twisting the String | The string’s thickness and stretch can be adjusted by twisting it. |
| Fine Tuning the Pitch | The string’s pitch should be about the same as the bow’s musical note. |
| Adding Serving | Serving is a thin thread wrapped around the string at the nocking point to protect it from wear. |
| Finishing Touches | Trim any excess string and heat seal the ends to prevent fraying. |
| Testing on the Bow | Once the string is complete, install it on the bow and check its performance. |
How To Make A Bow String
Making a bow string is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few hours. With the right materials and a little bit of patience, you can create a bow string that is both strong and durable.
To make a bow string, you will need the following materials:
Once you have gathered your materials, you can begin making the bow string. The first step is to measure the length of the bowstring. The length of the bowstring will depend on the length of your bow. Once you have measured the length of the bowstring, you can cut the bowstring material to the desired length.
The next step is to wind the bowstring. To do this, you will need to attach the bowstring material to the bowstring jig. Once the bowstring material is attached to the jig, you can begin winding it. Wind the bowstring material evenly and tightly. As you wind the bowstring, you will need to apply tension to the material. This will help to ensure that the bowstring is strong and durable.
Once you have wound the bowstring, you will need to serve the ends of the bowstring. To do this, you will need to wrap the serving thread around the ends of the bowstring. Wrap the serving thread evenly and tightly. Once you have served the ends of the bowstring, you will need to tie off the serving thread. To do this, you will need to make a knot in the serving thread and then cut off the excess thread.
Your bow string is now complete. You can now attach it to your bow and begin shooting.
People Also Ask
How do you make a bow string without a jig?
You can make a bow string without a jig by using a simple method called the “hand method.” To do this, you will need to wrap the bowstring material around your hand in a figure-eight pattern. Once you have wrapped the bowstring material around your hand, you will need to tie off the ends of the material. To do this, you will need to make a knot in the ends of the material and then cut off the excess material.
How do you make a bow string from sinew?
To make a bow string from sinew, you will need to collect sinew from an animal. Once you have collected the sinew, you will need to clean it and remove the fat. Once the sinew is clean, you will need to twist it into a cord. To do this, you will need to hold the sinew in your hands and twist it in opposite directions. Once you have twisted the sinew into a cord, you will need to tie off the ends of the cord. To do this, you will need to make a knot in the ends of the cord and then cut off the excess cord.
How do you make a bow string from paracord?
To make a bow string from paracord, you will need to braid the paracord. To do this, you will need to divide the paracord into three strands. Once you have divided the paracord into three strands, you will need to cross the left strand over the middle strand. Then, you will need to cross the right strand over the left strand. Continue braiding the paracord in this manner until you have reached the desired length. Once you have braided the paracord, you will need to tie off the ends of the braid. To do this, you will need to make a knot in the ends of the braid and then cut off the excess braid.
