looker

LOVE that drawknife!

Looker

I have made wrapped composite handles as well. I used jute twine, then brushed on a thick coat of slow-setting epoxy. The slower the better, it gives it more time to penetrate the cordage and to self-level. It's a good idea to mask off anywhere you don't want epoxy with tape, it's cheap and saves a lot of work later. I also turn it regularly until the epoxy sets up, so I don't have drips form. Once it's completely hardened, I sand it smooth and finish with a coat or two of spray-on satin spar varnish, masking again to prevent overspray issues. Masking tape is cheap and saves a lot of work!

I really like the way your handle turned out. I am in no way trying to criticize your work, just offering an alternative means to a similar end. Thanks for posting!

Looker

I don't coat mine, I just blue them with gun bluing after cleanup of the steel. Most of mine are stock removal knives though.

Looker

Great idea for controlling the speed! Here's another idea: In my woodworking catalog they sell a variable speed router control. Basically, you plug it into the wall and then plug your motor into the control. The speed is controlled by a knob. It would free you up to move around the shop while you're waiting for your heat.