Make Your Own Whip

If you do not have a full side of leather to work with then you should go to a saddler and buy a wide strap the full length of the hide. 50mm wide should give you enough for a whip, the fall, and still leave enough left over to do a half-plaited handle. Redhide is the usual leather for the basic whip, but you can also use greenhide, or any other strong leather. The most common whip for everyday use is the 4 plait. This can be made with the keeper and belly in one piece, or with the belly added as a separate piece. For your first whip I would suggest one with the belly added, as this is the type made today by professional whipmakers. You can go to http://users.tpg.com.au/users/ramskull/howto.htm for more information on how to make a whip.