Stick collecting as a hobby: how to start

People have kept interesting sticks for as long as there have been walks. Walking sticks and canes have been crafted and collected for centuries, stickmaking is still a lively craft with clubs and shows, and driftwood has its own following among artists and beachcombers. Stick collecting is simply the most approachable version of all of it.

Decide what you collect

A theme makes a collection. Some ideas:

• By shape: forks, spirals, hooks, hammers, wands.
• By place: one stick from every walk, park, beach or country you visit.
• By species: one good example of each tree in your area. See our species guide.
• By use: walking sticks and thumbsticks you can actually use.
• Digital only: photograph the stick, keep the card, leave the wood. Ideal for small homes and protected places.

Drying a fresh stick

Freshly fallen or green wood is full of moisture. Dry it too fast, near a radiator or in the sun, and it can split. Store it somewhere cool, dry and airy, standing up or lying flat and supported so it stays straight. Stickmakers often seal the cut ends with wax or glue to slow drying, and give a stick months before working it.

Cleaning and finishing

• Brush off dirt and loose bark with a stiff brush. Leave bark on if it is sound; it is part of the character.
• Check for insects before bringing a stick indoors. A few days in a shed or garage helps.
• If you want a finish, a light oil or wax brings out the grain without making it look plastic. Natural, unfinished sticks are just as collectable.

Storing a collection

An umbrella stand or tall basket works for walking sticks. Smaller pieces look good on a shelf or pegboard. Keep them out of damp rooms to avoid mould.

Keep a catalogue

Half the fun of a collection is the story: where you found it, when, what tree it came from. A notebook works. So does an app. In Stick League every stick becomes a card with the species, kind, date and a review from the judges, and Pro keeps the collection forever.

Collect kindly

Only take fallen wood, follow the rules of the place you are in, and leave plenty behind for the wildlife that lives in it. Our guide to finding a great stick has more.