Camping and woodcraft - Scoutmastercg.com

264 CAMPING AND WOODCRAFTAlso cut a bark carrying strap about 4^/2feet long,and a quite narrow one for thongs.Fold the sheet of bark across the middle of thelonger dimensions {a-b. Fig. 95), and bring theends together, one overlappingthe other. The naturalconvexity of the barkspreads it out into anoval at the top. If thebucket were to bs used forberry picking, or the like,you would fasten the topby merely cutting holesthrough at A, Fig. 96, andFig. 96.—Fish bucket the corresponding pointon the opposite side, andtying with bark thongs. For a fish basket, thethong is strung crisscross as shown in the illustration,as this keeps the fish from flopping out. Attacha bark shoulder strap through slits in the back, andthe thing is done. You have a sweet, clean ''bucket"that carries under the left arm without bulging somuch as a creel, and no top is needed. Put cleanferns or grass over the fish when the sun ishot, andthey will keep moist and firm and well-colored,day. This bucket is easier to wash than a creel.In a week, if you are to stay longer, make a newone, as the old one will have warped.Large packs for the back are made In the sameway, from balsam or other bark, but laced up alongthe sides, stiffened by a couple of hoops on the inside,and fitted with a pack strap of bark or plaitedfiber. A flap to cover It, If wanted. Is provided byan extension of the bark at the top, which Is rossedoff to make It flexible. Such a carrier Is called bythe French Canadians a corseau (from casseau).In warm weather It Is more comfortable to carryihan a blanket pack, as It does not sweat the back.B.AST Ropes and Twine.—Straps, %h-stringers,?tc.. are made from the whole bark of pawpaw.all