SPLIT BAMBOO RODMAKING 193 



as the case may be. Take them apart again 

 and correct the errors, rewind them, and so 

 on until you are satisfied with the result. 



At this stage it is well to have in hand a 

 memorandum of the calibers of the ferrules 

 you plan to put on your rod, and to work to- 

 ward that end. Remember that the diameter 

 of the cane on flat surfaces cannot be less than 

 the inside diameter of the ferrule that is to go 

 on it. It is better to use a large ferrule than 

 one requiring filing the cane to fit. 



Of course the work on middle joint and tip 

 will be like that already described, but, con- 

 trary to the lay opinion, it is easier. When 

 an outsider looks at a slender tip and is told 

 that there are six strips in it, he marvels 

 greatly, but with the system described it is 

 not so very difficult to make tips after you 

 have had some practice with the thicker and 

 less wieldy butt strips. 



Before you make the middle joint, glue up 

 the butt, and perhaps that work will give you 

 an idea or two that will help you in the sub- 

 sequent work with the plane. At least it will 

 show you that illy fitted strips will not be im- 

 proved or hidden in the glueing, and that you 

 have got to have them right before you cement 

 up the faults past correcting. 



