How Do You Decorate Indian Walking Sticks?
Native Americans have long used walking sticks for practical and cultural reasons. On a long journey, walking sticks could be used to aid weary travelers, extend their reach, carry heavy packs or defend themselves in times of trouble. Sticks were also symbols of status, decorated vividly to show a members’ place in the tribe, or to record the stories of their journeys by the markings on the sticks. You can make your own Indian walking stick for hikes or decorative purposes. Find a sturdy piece of wood cut from a recently pruned tree or buy a ready-made walking stick. Be sure the stick can hold your weight if you intend to walk with it. Look for sticks with interesting natural tips that can be used as handles or that resemble antlers. Strip the stick of bark and sand the stick with a coarse or medium grit sand paper to reduce the rough spots. Go over the stick a final time with a fine grit sand paper to make it smooth. Wipe it clean with a damp cloth to move dust and debris. Choose a co
