Long handled shoe horn

[old243]

I don't how many of you folks, have trouble reaching your feet and putting your boots and shoes on. I use a long handled shoe horn. Just put it behind your heel and in your boot , your foot will slide right in , no need to bend over while you are doing it.

I had a strip of white ash , approximately 2 1/2 inches wide and 3/4 inch thick, I cut several pieces 27 inches long. At the horn end form a cupped end about 6 inches long , that your heel will slide on. On the back side round it off so it will fit into your boot, These should be tapered down so that at the tip it is quite thin. You have to leave enough wood that it is still strong , and won,'t split. I narrowed the center part in so that it is about 1 1/2 wide to give it a bit nicer shape and so it is not too heavy. I left the handle end full width and drilled a hole in it to hang on a nail or a loop of shoe lace , or rawhide. I have a belt sander with a fairly course belt, did most of the shaping , with it. just keep grinding till you are happy with the looks and shape. I keep one of these , hanging above my boots, so it is always handy . Have another in my camper and one at the hunt camp. The funny part was just as I finished making , this one my neighbor walked in, wondered what I was making . He said he had trouble getting his boots on. I handed it to him, and said , now you won't have a problem. I have several more pieces ready , so will make a couple more. This having time to putter around in the shop is good. old243

[Brad H.]

Sounds like a cool project. Sometimes its more fun to make these little projects than to build something big.

[old243]

Was talking to my neighbor that I give the shoehorn to. He thinks it is the best thing since sliced bread. Said his wife used it as well this morning. She wonders if I could make her dad one. My shoe horn business is booming. I tell them I want a buck three eighty an hour. This always gets an odd look , from people. I agree little projects are a lot of fun, little or no expense, keep the neighbors happy. She will likely have a plate of cookies, for me.old243

[old243]

I visited my brother in law , on the weekend. When leaving, I had a heck of a time , getting my shoes on. I think my legs have got longer as I got older, can't reach my feet. I decided that he should have a shoe horn, for the next time I visit. Last night , spent some time in the shop and roughed out several more shoehorns . Planed to thickness , then used the band saw to get a rough shape. I when use a belt sander, to take away everything ,that doesn't look the way you want it. Finished a nice cherry one, that will match , their coat rack. Life is good old 243

Has anyone else tried this project yet, good way to spend  a couple of hours?