How to Start Your Own Irish Walking Stick Collection

Why Collect Irish Walking Sticks?

Each blackthorn stick is as unique as the tree it came from. Add in the hand-carved nature of traditional Irish craftsmanship, and you’ve got a collectible that’s both functional and deeply personal.

Collectors are drawn to:

The natural beauty of Irish blackthorn

The variation in handles, grain, and finish

The cultural and historical connection to Ireland

It’s not about how many you have—it’s about what they mean.

Beechwood Hiking stick


What Makes a Stick Worth Collecting?

Not all sticks are created equal. Here’s what to look for when starting your collection:

Authentic Irish Blackthorn Wood – Not just “blackthorn style”

Handcrafted in Ireland – Avoid mass-produced imports

A Story Behind the Stick – Who made it, where it was harvested

Natural Knots and Grain – Every one tells a story

A Variety of Shapes – Crooks, knobsticks, staffs, and walking canes

Blackthorn Tall staff Hiking stick


Where to Begin

Start with a stick that feels right to you. Maybe:

A classic blackthorn shillelagh

A tall hiking staff

A walking cane with a polished handle

From there, you can branch out—literally! Explore different finishes, handle shapes, sizes, and even colour tones based on the bark and age.


Displaying Your Collection

A collector’s pride should be visible! Here are ideas:

Wall racks in a hallway or study

Corner stand displays grouped by height

Shadow box frames for special heirlooms

Rotating seasonal stick displays in your home or office

Your sticks will invite questions—and stories.

Nice blackthorn 40 inches (101 cm) tall


The Emotional Side of Collecting

Many collectors aren’t just gathering items—they’re preserving legacy. A stick may remind you of a family member, a visit to Ireland, or a rite of passage.

As one collector put it:

“Each stick holds a bit of soul, and together they tell my Irish story.”


Starting your own Irish walking stick collection is a journey into craftsmanship, history, and pride. Whether you’re after your first or your fifteenth, each blackthorn stick adds something meaningful to your home—and your heart.

Browse our authentic, handcrafted Irish blackthorn sticks and start your collection with confidence at MyIrishWalkingStick.com.

Hazel Irish walking stick with a large knobhead

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