How
they are made
The rock maple saplings used to make my Walden Walkers
begin life in the western mountains of Maine. Sugar maples
flourish in the rich upland soils found in Franklin and
Somerset counties. I have developed quite a network of
small woodlot owners who are doing what is known as “T.S.I”,
or timber stand improvement.
Thinning and
selective cutting help to sustain desired species
and preserve important animal habitats. I purchase
these woodlot cuttings and recycle them into
my Walden Walkers walking sticks. I start out
by letting the maples season for one year, high
and dry in the loft of my barn. Then each stick
goes through a rigorous three step sanding process
to remove and smooth the outer layer of bark.
A hand-rubbed tung oil varnish is applied to
protect the wood and please the hand.
Walden Walkers
may be purchased at many fine retailers throughout
New England. For a dealer near you, drop me an
email, shakerondack@dirkleach.com
You may also purchase Walden Walkers in person
at one of the Craft Festivals I will be attending
this summer and fall (for current listings see "Contact
Us" page).
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