Here's the test-wrap for the hilt of the cane sword. 1mm and 1.5mm leather cord over poplar. Poplar will likely be stained with black India Ink. I may go with a more subtle reddish hue and back up the punched silver pommel with copper instead of onyx.
We'll see which looks best. I got some black sculpey and a couple of brass fittings so I can do some mockups - expect forging photos over the weekend!
