Why Blackthorn? The Wood of Irish Legend
Known for its toughness, thorny bark, and dark, striking appearance, blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) has long been revered in Ireland. It's a wood that was both feared and loved—once used in duels, now used for hiking, walking, and even collecting. Unlike other woods, blackthorn’s gnarled character tells a story in every twist.
The Harvest: Gathering in Winter
Blackthorn must be harvested during the colder months—typically between November and March—when the sap is low. This reduces cracking and prepares the wood for long-term durability.
Traditionally, it’s cut from hedgerows—never just clear-felled. That’s because true blackthorn stick makers respect the land. It’s about conservation as much as craftsmanship.
Blackthorn Walking Stick Large Grip
The Long Wait: Seasoning the Stick
No shortcuts here. After harvesting, blackthorn sticks are stored to season and dry—sometimes for up to 3 years. This slow process ensures the wood doesn’t warp or split.
They’re often stored in cool, dark sheds with good air flow. Patience is a virtue when it comes to stick making.
Stripping, Sanding, and Shaping
Once seasoned, the stick is debarked—except in many cases, the bark is left on for its iconic texture. That’s a hallmark of a real Irish blackthorn.
The craftsman then sands the handle smooth, trims the shaft, and begins to give it its unique identity. No two sticks are ever the same.
Finishing Touches: Oil, Wax & Flame
Here’s where the magic happens. The stick is treated with boiled linseed oil, beeswax, and sometimes even passed through a flame to highlight its natural markings.
Some craftsmen gently torch the bark to bring out its black-and-red tones, a technique as old as the stick itself. Finally, a rubber ferrule may be added for modern walking.
Irish Hands, Irish Craft
At MyIrishWalkingStick.com, we work with the finest craftsmen across Ireland—people who’ve inherited the knowledge of stick making from their fathers and grandfathers. This isn’t just a product. It’s a living tradition.
Every Irish blackthorn stick we sell is hand-selected, ethically sourced, and proudly Irish-made.
Irish Blackthorn Walking Stick
Why This Matters
When you carry one of these sticks, you’re not just using a walking aid—you’re carrying a piece of Ireland’s soul. For walking, hiking, collecting, or gifting—it’s something that can’t be mass-produced.
And that’s the blackthorn truth.