Building my first self bow

[CedarAddict]

I want to make my first self bow but am COMPLETELY clueless where and how to start. Im considering buying a roughed out blank from 3 rivers archery and the beginners set of tools. Is this a good idea or is there a better way to get started?

[b.glass]

Doesn't sound like a bad idea to me.

[Rain Man]

http://poorfolkbows.com/oak.htm  

That's how I got started.  It's a MUST READ

[CedarAddict]

Wow thank you for the link. I think i'll get started on one this weekend after I get back from turkey hunting. Now im not sure which im more excited about, turkey hunting or going to home depot and getting supplies to get started. Thanks again and wish me luck.  

[Roy from Pa]

That was a nice link. But the blue on the back of the bow threw me a curve:)

[Jason Scott]

I used black when I made mine. I think it looks better than blue.

I just saw a friends rawhide backed bow the other day. I was surprised that after the glue cured and he finished the bow it was almost transparent. You could actually see the wood grain under the rawhide. You could use whatever backing you want with Sam's buildalong.

[Sam Harper]

Nobody likes my blue backing.  :-(

Well, there's always linen, and you can get a pair of 100% linen pants to cut up for backings at Goodwill for about $4.  And you only need one layer.

[Rain Man]

Yea, nothing against you bud, but I opted for some black linen.  BTW, I have to personally thank you for the step-by-step instructions.  You have helped more people than you'll ever know.

[Sam Harper]

You're welcome.

[George Tsoukalas]

Stuff.
http://georgeandjoni.home.comcast.net/~georgeandjoni/
Jawge

[Roy from Pa]

Ya, that blue was different:)

[Zach Mikita]

Im starting my bow this weekend Sam! May be shooting you a message or two if i run into issues

[Loren Holland]

ditto to rain...
Sam, i gotta say that i used your build a long for my first bow, and i remember thinking how i didn't like the blue either...but in your defense, one of your threads on that site, is about backings, where you listed everything from linen, paper, silk, bamboo, hickory, to blue jeans.
i personally try to take the best from every build a long, besides Zach hasn't even mentioned his target weight and draw yet, maybe with a good straight grained board, he won't even need a backing