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Walking sticks are not just for people who are getting older, or people who are "lame" or otherwise invalid in some way.
Walking sticks have been in use probably as long as "homo-erectus" has been walking on two legs instead of on four!

Walking sticks are not "crutches" per se, and are not only used to help support a person as they walk. Rather, some walking sticks can actually be considered more of a symbol of status or of character, depending on the style of walking stick in use. Indeed, it is easy to imagine an English Nobleman with a quite ornate walking stick, tap-tap-tapping his way along the gas-lit, cobblestone alleyway in London. Likewise, it is easy to imagine a Tibetan Monk trekking up a steep mountainside, clutching his 'staff' to help keep his footing and balance.

So, we can see that walking sticks very likely have been around a very long time, and have been used for a variety of functions.
I am about to tell you how to craft one for yourself. It will be unique, one-of-a-kind, and it will become a part of you, as you work it through the simple steps to completion. It will also cost you very little cash!

Tools and Materials needed:
Safety Glasses
Leather work gloves
Hand saw (small "bow" style, or similar)
Hand pruning shears
Tree branch (which will become your walking stick-see below for how to choose)
Razor knife with sharp blade; for stripping bark from branch
Chair-to sit in while stripping bark!
Place to strip the bark from the branch (it can be messy, so outdoors is recommended).
Medium grit sandpaper
Clear enamel spray paint

SAFETY TIPS:
Saws, razor knives, pruning shears and spray paint can be sources of injury if not properly used. Follow manufacturers' recommendations for safe handling or use.

The challenge of the search:
Note: Pine trees are "rich with pitch", and, consequently, are not very good candidates for this particular method of crafting a walking stick, unless you are prepared to become "rich with pitch" yourself! For obvious reasons, "hardwoods" are best for this walking stick (oak, birch, maple, ash, willow, lilac, etc.).

One of the most interesting facets of crafting your own walking stick is the search for that 'perfect' branch. If your property has a number of trees, I am sure you can find a 'perfect' branch on one of them. Look for branches that are low to the ground so you do not need to climb any ladders; then look for one that has a fairly straight section for at least 30-36 inches. This, of course, depends on your own specific height.

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