Making a Gargoyle Cane

Construction techniques for carving a functional cane

After researching the mysterious art form of gargoyles, I wondered how I could integrate a carved gargoyle with a subject dearer to my heart: canes and walking sticks. One thought that crossed my mind when I first studied images of classic waterspout, or "true" gargoyles, was: "Man, that would make a great cane handle!"

I needed to work the design into a shaft and determine how to make it strong enough to support weight. This design is typical of a classic Notre Dame cathedral gargoyle. I have arched the overall shape a bit in order to have it fit the hand better, and I omitted the drainage channel that normally would run the length of the carving.

I use mahogany for the handle. Mahogany is strong, but not too hard to carve. Avoid using a softer wood such as basswood for this project, as it may easily snap when in use. Even better would be a much harder wood, such as cherry or maple, but they can be quite difficult to carve. The shaft is swamp maple. I chose swamp maple because I like the bark. You can choose just about any wood you like for the shaft, but be sure it is strong and resistant to dents. It is important that the total diameter where the shaft joins the handle is no more than 1½" (38mm), otherwise you will not be able to taper the sleeve to a seamless fit–1¼" (32mm) would be preferable. Cut the shaft's overall length longer than you think you will need–you will be able to cut it down when the project is all together later.

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Step 1. Prepare the blank.

Glue two pieces of wood together to make sure the grain runs along the handle and along the shaft sleeve. Be sure the adjoining surfaces are perfectly flush with each other to ensure a tight seamless glue joint. Once the glue is cured, drill a ¼

Step2. Attach the shaft.

Using a knife, shape a ¾" (19mm)-diameter male tenon using the drilled hole as a center point. Use a long-bladed knife to slowly bore out a matching female mortise in the handle. Check the fit often. Use a ¼" (6mm)-diameter threaded rod through the drilled holes to strengthen the cane. Cut the rod so that, when inserted, it will fall short of protruding through the top by about ½" (12mm). Insert wood glue in the holes and smear it on the tenon. Insert the rod into the shaft and push the shaft and handle together. Wipe off any glue squeeze out with a damp cloth.

Step 3. Carve the handle.

Be sure to taper the sleeve with a knife, matching the diameter of the shaft, so the joint is seamless to the touch. Use the pattern as a guide to carve the gargoyle. Keep the figure solid and avoid deep undercuts that could result in fragile areas. Carve the mortar lines past the mahogany down into the shaft wood to integrate the two pieces.

Step 4. Finish the cane.

Carve a small piece of mahogany to plug the ¼" (6mm)-diameter hole in the top. Glue the plug in place. When dry, carve off the excess plug to create a flush surface. Apply a few coats of polyurethane, sanding lightly between each coat with 000 steel wool. Buff the final coat of polyurethane with 0000 steel wool. Cut the shaft to the desired length.

Bonus Web Tip

For best results, clamp the handle and shaft together after you apply the glue. The best way to do this is to clamp the shaft carefully in a vise. Slide the handle into place and tie a piece of rope or twine around the handle. Pull the rope tight and tie the rope off on the vise.

Finished Gargoyle Cane

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