Supplies
Straight length of Maple, Birch, or any moderate hardwood, at least 16-inches (40.64 cm)
Jack-knife, sharpened
Plastic bag
Medium-grit sandpaper
Fine sandpaper
Optional Supplies
Ultra-fine buffing paper
Spray-sealant
Wood stain
Instructions
Strip the bark from the stick, and begin whittling.
Allow to slow-dry by loosely wrapping it in plastic bag.
GENTLY bend it against the natural curve with your hands so it dries straight.
Once dry, sand it, first with the medium-grit paper, and then the fine to make it nice and smooth.
Ultra-fine paper will allow you to polish the wood to a natural shine.
Optionally, you can keep it as is and spray with a sealant, or stain it before sealing it.
Credit
© Mijan's tutorial was taken with permission from Madame Malkins.