How to Make a Broom From Broomcorn

Prior to 1797, brooms were homemade tools, crudely constructed by homemakers. Around the end of the 18th century, broom-making began to catch on as a profitable industry, and brooms could be purchased from broom-makers who specialized in their construction. When it came to finding stiff stalks for the brush of the broom, no other material could compare with broomcorn, a type of sorghum with sturdy, fibrous seed branches that was widely grown in Illinois and Wisconsin in the 19th century. Although broomcorn can be difficult to locate today, this plant is still the material of choice for quality homemade brooms.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tree branch
• Knife
• Water
• Drill
• Twine

1. Cut a straight tree branch that has relatively few knots and twists. This will serve as the handle for your broom. Whittle the branch down as needed to create a comfortable size and shape for holding.

2. Obtain several lengths of broomcorn for the project. This can be specially ordered from craft suppliers (see Resources).

3. Cut several lengths of broomcorn. Trim the broomcorn to a length of about 6 inches. Soak the stalk of the broomcorn in hot water for half an hour. Remove the stalks and let them drain.

4. Tie the broom corn together into several sections that are about 1-inch thick. Secure the tops of the broomcorn together with twine, about 1 inch from the top.

5. Drill a hole into the broom handle 1 inch from the bottom. Weave a long piece of twine through the hole and knot it tightly to secure the twine to the handle.

6. Work with one bunch of broomcorn at a time. Wrap the twine that is tied to the broom handle around the bunch of broomcorn very tightly. After wrapping the twine around the bunch once, add another bunch and wrap the twine around both bunches. Continue in this manner until all of the broomcorn is attached to the broom handle with the twine. As you add bunches, arrange them so that they completely surround the broom handle.

7. Wrap the twine around the completed brush five or six more times. Knot the twine and weave the loose end back into the twine that surrounds the broom. Test the broom to make sure that each bunch of broomcorn is secure. Add another layer of twine if needed to secure the brush to the handle.

References

• Broomcorn and Broom Making
• The Broomakers Page

Resources

• R E Caddy & Co.
• Broomcorn Basketry Supplies