In some cases, your sword hand may not be the same as the hand you use for writing or using tools. To verify your sword hand, hold a straight piece of wood or a household item. This should be roughly the length of your forearm. The hand in which this is most comfortable is your sword hand.
This measurement can be difficult to take accurately without help. You may want a friend or family member to assist you in this.
Depending on the kind of sword you are using, sizing conventions can vary. These measurements are for a modern, straight bladed military saber. Most mass produced bladed weapons, like swords, are broken down into sizes. These sizes are generally in standardized increments, like 1 or 2 inches (2. 5 to 5 cm). As an example of a sword with a different size expectation, a traditional broadsword ranges from 30 to 45 inches (76. 2 to 114. 3 cm). [2] X Research source
To check your wood for rottenness, strike it against a hard surface. If it breaks or cracks, select another piece of wood. [3] X Research source
When drawing your outline, remember the cross guard of the sword. This is located at the base of the blade, between the blade and handle of the sword. [4] X Research source The tip of swords are generally angled or pointed. Be sure to include this in your outline. A 45° angle from the tip to one side of the sword will provide a suitable angled point.
For one-sided blades, the blade should narrow on its “sharp” side, creating a triangular shape. The wood should thicken toward the opposite, non-bladed side. For double sided swords, the shape of the blade will be roughly that of a diamond. The thickest part of this blade will be at the center of the blade, with both “edged” sides thin.
An oval shape will be more comfortable to hold onto when using your sword than a purely circular one. [8] X Research source To make a distinct cross guard, a file will work best. Use your knife to form the general outline at this point. Later, you’ll use sandpaper to smooth it, and a file to make it distinct.
Some wood is heavier than others. Heavier woods may require very thin blades and handles for them to be of comfortable weight. Making the blade and handle of your sword too thin can compromise your sword’s sturdiness.
Be patient with this process. Sanding can take a while, but a well sanded sword will look more professional made. To speed up this process, you could clamp your sword to a work bench and use a hand sander. [9] X Research source
Sweat from your hand along with the force of hitting something with your sword can jostle it from your grasp if you don’t have a grip. Alternatively, you can use duct tape for the grip of your sword. Different patterns/colors of tape can be used to suit your preference.
Using a file in this fashion will better separate your cross guard from the handle and blade the sword.
Slide the separate cross guard piece up the handle. The guard should catch where the blade thickens and go no farther. To hold your cross guard in place, wrap twine or string around the guard. Alternate between the top and bottom of the guard so the string winds along the base of the blade and top of the handle. Tie the string off in a simple knot.
To make a sheath, cut one long sleeve off of an old shirt. sew one end of a long sleeve closed. Slide your sword inside, and you’re done.
