How to Hollow Out a Branch

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Things You'll Need

  • Clamps or vise

  • Hand drill

  • Butterfly bit, sized to the hole you desire

  • Small chisel

  • Sandpaper

Hollowing out a branch is a traditional method for creating a variety of objects.

Hollowing out sticks and logs is a useful skill for making a variety of items, from didgeridoos to flutes. By removing the core of a branch, the wood itself becomes lighter, able to be used as a building material or as a means of creating sound through a musical instrument. While hollowing wood can appear to be difficult, it is a simple act with the right tools and patience.

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Step 1

Secure the branch to the work surface using clamps or a vise. Insert the butterfly bit into the drill and fasten it.

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Step 2

Place the drill bit in the middle of the core of the branch and turn it on. Drill as far as you can into the branch's core.

Step 3

Remove the drill bit from the branch. Insert it into the other end of the tree branch, into the core, and turn it on. Press it through the branch until it reaches the other drilled end.

Step 4

Take out the drill and set it aside. Chisel out the hollowed part of the branch to make the area as even and level as you can.

Step 5

Sand out the hollowed area to smooth any rough edges, starting with coarse paper and progressing to finer grades.

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