Stick Bundles

$2 - $5 (based on 2016 prices)

Makes one bundle

I fashioned together this simple bundle of sticks to give an apothecary display more interest. The project was surprisingly easy and quick to produce (I created four bundles in less than an hour). Because this was exhibited indoors, I chose pieces without any dried leaves; however, you can give the prop more character by selecting branches with ample amounts of foliage.

• A dozen dried sticks in varying sizes
• Two to three yards of steel wire
• Two to three yards of dark-brown twine

1. Gather about a dozen sticks. A simple ten-minute walk in the park or woods yields the best (and cheapest) results. Try to select pieces in varying sizes and shapes.

2. Arrange the sticks in an interesting pattern and lash them together with steel wire. This process works best if you create a sturdy base by putting the larger sticks at the bottom and utilize the smaller pieces to construct your design. Additionally, protect your hands during assembly by wearing heavy work gloves.

3. Use rope, twine, or yarn to hide the wire and give the illusion that the sticks are primitively bound with some form of simple lashing. This also masks the wire’s sharp edges and creates a protective guard for walls.

4. Use wire to fashion a hanging loop on the back of the bundle.

5. To contrast the bundle against the wall (and provide additional protection) create a backdrop with creepy cloth and drape strands along the outreaching branches. You can achieve further depth by using cloth in varying colors.

6. For additional detail, add bats, disheveled crows, or snakes. Likewise, try inverting the bundle so the branches hang downward.