I have used hickory on two and cloth on one . Want to use fiberglass now . Can I use the fiberglass cloth or the sheet stuff ? Its just to keep it from splitting. If the cloth works can I use titebond 11 or should I use epoxy.
Thanks.
from what i know you can use fiberglass cloth and titebond but it can overpower the belly wood. diferent people have varied experiences
I would be hesitate on using the sheet stuff without a fiber belly. I used the cloth stuff on kids bows that I definately don't want to break.
A fiber glass backing of any type is not necessary on a properly made bow. If a backing is needed paper, silk, linen or even burlap is sufficient. If you want to add zip to your backed bow use a thin strip of hickory, ash, elm, maple, bamboo or sinew.
A few years ago some bowyers started using FG backing of some of their "natural" bows but soon found out that it could easily overpower the belly wood.
If you want to build a natural bow use natural materials. If you want to build a FG bow then use the proper methods and materials for that. Trying to make a hybrid of both is not necessary and in many cases will have unsatisfactory results. There are no "easier" methods for either so pick one method that you prefer and with a little time and patience you will have the bow you are looking for.
Well said Pat
Hey thanks guys. IM going to use silk.