How to Install a Handle on a Walking Cane

Making your own walking cane can be a great way of saving money and ensuring that a cane is tailored to your specific needs. If you have just had surgery, it can be a good way of keeping busy while you are incapacitated. Making a handle for a walking cane is a simple process and does not require a great deal of technical knowledge.

Things You'll Need

• Drill
• Large Drill bit
• Wood for Cane
• Wood for Handle
• Screw
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper
• Varnish

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Measure out your cane to the desired length. Before cutting it down to size, drill a hole that is 1/8 inch smaller than the diameter of the wood in the cane. This will form the 'seat' in which the handle sits. Cut the wood across the diameter of the hole so that you are left with a large, semi-circular indentation. You can now cut the other end of the cane to your desired length.

• 2

  Wrap the handle you are going to install in sandpaper. Place it into the seat and roll it, sanding down the area in which it will be installed. This will make the fit snug, and will make much of the process easier.

• 3

  Drill a hole down the center of the cane with a bit slightly smaller than the screw that you will use. Do the same in the handle. Place generous amounts of wood glue in the seat and screw the handle into the cane. Screw tight, and wait for the wood to dry.

• 4

  Sand down the handle, removing any splinters, and sand off any wood glue that may have dribbled out. Place wood glue over the end of the screw to prevent any sharp edges.

• 5

  Varnish the stick to give it a smooth finish. Once the first coat of varnish has dried, repeat and allow this to dry. Your stick is now complete with a handle and is ready for use.