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Howdy folks - new to the forum. Showing of my deerskin bullwhips, along with a couple of cowhide bullwhips. First up is a white deerskin I just rolled out today. Still needs knots and some minor finishing work, but 90% of the tough stuff is complete. I made this bullwhip with nothing but left overs from previous builds. Here's a pic of the 2nd belly, which was made with black, tan, and gold deerskin scrap strands I had lying around: Here's the finished thong, without knots, at an exact 8': Here's a detail shot of the tapering of the strands: Strands are 5.5mm at the handle, and taper down to 3mm at the fall. Here are some random shots of other deerskin bullwhips, either finished or mid-build:

All else being equal (mainly string thickness), does it make sense to use something like B-50 dacron bowstring (assuming it's stronger) than go with say waxed cotton, cotton/nylon string to do your wrapping with? What properties other than strength should I look for in string for bullwhip construction?

I want to make a whip but I'm having a real issue sourcing the right leather. I've made four whips over the years, the one below was made of buffalo but over the years the lacing has shrunk and the gaps make it look untidy. I have no idea how to use it, I tried once and still have the scar. its a show piece that hangs in the workshop, it serves no purpose other than to say... i made that. I'm fascinated by the intricacies of a whip, the detail and work that goes into them. I don't want to make one just for show though, it has to be the correct construction, I don't want to cheat. This one is leather to the core. It rolls out nicely and is still solid. Now... I know kangaroo is the best lace to use because of its tensile strength but there are no decent sources for it in the UK, I remember years ago MHW in Australia sold finished lace but having looked at the site it hasn't changed and I've had no replies to emails so I don't know if they are still going. So... Is there a good outlet for kangaroo out there? Or, drawing or your expertise... What other leather plaits well and has a similar strength and look? I have cut lace myself but am no master so it's straight without taper, this means I have to drop laces to reduce the body from the handle down to the fall. In truth, it's beyond me how you can taper an 8 foot length of lace from 4mm to say 2mm. I'd be very interested in your thoughts on materials and techniques. This side of leather is very much a hobby so I'm willing to take any advice or tips you can offer. This is a two way street... If I can help you with your stitching, just sing out. Nigel