How to Make Swagger Sticks

Substitute a swagger stick for a cane to add authority to your outfit.

Whether you are making a costume or a fashion statement, carrying a swagger stick can add authority and class to your self-presentation. Traditionally used as part of a military uniform, an authentic swagger stick can be hard to find, and expensive. You can create your own with spray paint and a wooden dowel rod, adorned with items found around the house or at flea markets.

Things You'll Need

• 1/2-inch wooden dowel rod, 22 inches in length
• Dark brown spray paint
• Gold or silver spray paint
• Wood or craft glue
• Heavy paper, such as poster board
• Clear packing tape

Instructions

1. Lay newspaper on a flat surface, outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Place the dowel rod on the paper. Shake your can of dark brown spray paint, and spray the rod. Let one side dry; then turn it over and spray again, so the rod is evenly and completely covered in paint. Let the paint dry.

2. Cut your heavy paper into two squares, each 2 inches long by 2 inches wide. Lay the squares on your newspaper and spray one side with gold or silver spray paint. Let the paint dry.

3. Spread a thin layer of wood or craft glue on the non-painted side of one of the squares of paper. Press it against one end of the dowel rod, lining up the edge of the paper with the end of the rod. Use a small piece of tape to hold the paper in place as you wrap it around the rod. Add another piece of tape to hold the paper in place while the glue dries. Once dry, remove the tape. You may need to retouch the paint. To do this without spraying the rest of the rod, spray the paint into the spray paint lid and use a small paintbrush for touch ups. Glue the other square of paper to the opposite end of the rod, using the same technique.

4. Personalize your swagger stick. Add stickers or sequins to the top end of the stick. Glue a military-style button to the top end of the dowel rod to make it look more authentic.

Tips & Warnings

• Check flea markets for military pins. Once the backing is removed, these can easily be glued to your swagger stick.

References

• "Military Times"; Swagger Stick Reached its Zenith in the 1950s; Fred L. Borch and Robert F. Dorr