The best way to strip bark from a large branch?

Question

I want to make a climbing tree/scratching post for a relatives cat for which I've found some largeish branches. I now need to strip the bark off them, is there a generally accepted method for doing this? I remember doing it ages ago with a chisel and hammer but that was on a small branch to create a walking stick. Would it still be the same method though for a bigger piece? I was thinking that using a heat gun would make the process easier too? On a second note, should I treat the wood once I have stripped it, bearing in mind its for indoor use and that cats might chew it?

Any thoughts appreciated.

Jim.

Dave Balderstone · Accepted Answer

Last time I stripped bark I used a draw knife, and wished I had a shaving horse to hold the piece. But a sharp draw knife was very easy to use. A hammer and chisel would be way too much work for me.

I would leave it untreated if a future push stick was going to be clawing it..

djb

Nova · Answer

I'd use a draw knife. >> On a second note, should I treat the wood once I have stripped it, bearingI'd leave it unfinished/untreated.--Jack NovakBuffalo, NY - USA(Remove "SPAM" from email address to reply)

rj · Answer

My cat preferred the post with the bark on - - made a mess, but saved thefurniture.

George · Answer

Harvest now, with sap up.  Soak for a week in dihydrogen monoxide, slit andpeel.

Old Nick · Answer

On Sat, 26 Jun 2004 07:07:46 -0400, "George" vaguely proposed a theory ......and in reply I say!:

remove ns from my header address to reply via email

How do you find work out which way is up for the sap?

Friggin rocket fuel. It _blows_ the bark off!

GJP · Answer

"James Duncan"  wrote innews:cbi99t$2lf$                 Depending on the size of the branch and thickness of the bark...drawknife as some have said is most likely the best, but if you don't have a drawknife try a potato peeler.(G)GJP

The best way to strip bark from a large branch?

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