How Do You Make A Willow Whistle?
• Find a willow twig that has no side branches. It should be less than an inch thick and have green bark. 8 inches is a good length. The ideal twig is straight, smooth, and round so it makes a perfectly shaped whistle. • If you can’t find a willow twig that is 8 inches long, you can try to find a longer one and cut off 8 inches of it to make a whistle from. You can also cut off side branches if needed, although you may need a bigger knife. • Carve a small notch into the twig, about a quarter of the length in. • Cut a ring around the twig about two inches further in than the notch. Take care to cut only the outer layer of bark and not completely through the wood. • Remove the bark. Wet the twig (all the way from the ring to the mouthpiece) with water and tap it gently with the handle of your knife so it loosens the bark. Then carefully twist and pull the bark off. Try not to rip or break the bark because you will need to put it back on the twig later. Dunk it in water to keep it wet and
