What material to use for string (4 yr old's board bow)

[wlgorman]

Im in the process of fashioning my first board bow. Making it for my 4 year old daughter out of red oak board with silk backing. I have twine but im afraid it will stretch too much. I read on stickbow.com to use #3 (3/32") blind cord but home depot doesn't seem to carry it. Is there a suitable material that I can use that is readily available from the hardware stores???

[bwssr]

lots of silk dental floss?

[RickBarbee]

Polyester sewing thread.
Same thing as B50.

Just make sure to use enough strands to be strong enough for the bow.
I can't tell you how many strands, because the thread strength will vary
from one size to another.
Just play with it until you figure out how many you need.

Rick

[wlgorman]

Hmm, my wife is a seamstress, once she wakes up from her nap ill ask if she has it...

[TxNurse]

For one that light, I would think some nylon trotline cord (or the equivalent from the hardware store) would be good enough. You can order B-50 or B-55 bowstring material for $8-$9 for 1/4 pound roll. If you are going to be building more bows you will need it anyway. I use Diamondback serving with good results on my Flemish twist strings.

[SamHarper]

I use artificial sinew from Hobby Lobby. It's cheap, waxed, and easy on young fingers.

[Fuzzy Dog]

I'm pretty sure I have some B50 laying around. Send me a pm with your address and I'll be happy to send you some - assuming I can find it in the mess I've got out in the barn.

[wlgorman]

Got it fuzzydog. Thanks a lot!!! Ill keep you updated on the progress. Haven't had much time but ill get her bow done soon. Hope she takes to it.

[Fuzzy Dog]

Great. Glad it got there. Have fun.