How to Make Chopsticks from a Yucca Stalk

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: If you live in the American Southwestern desert

   Find a stalk that has already fallen to the ground; don't break down an upright stalk, because birds use them to perch and nest.
   
   The stalks vary in suitability; find one that is mostly smooth and not completely hollowed out by bees.
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   Step 2: finding a yucca plant can be as easy as walking into your backyard.

   , Press lightly, working the blade side to side.
   
   Once the split starts, it usually continues fairly effortlessly. , Discard the pieces that didn't split well (they make good kindling wood). , The simplest way is to just make the "food" end of them rounded, and leave the rest as it is.
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   Step 3: Using a hacksaw or other fine-toothed (probably no less than 18 teeth per inch) saw

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   Step 4: cut a section about 7 to 12 inches (17.8 to 30.5 cm) long; longer for cooking

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   Step 5: shorter for eating.

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   Step 6: Using a non-serrated knife

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   Step 7: split the piece in half: sitting and wearing a leather apron

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   Step 8: hold the piece securely with your thighs while you press with the knife from the top

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   Step 9: one hand on the knife handle and the other cupped over the top of the blade.

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    Step 10: Continue splitting into quarters and eighths

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    Step 11: until you get a suitable size.

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    Step 12: When finished splitting the stick

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    Step 13: you can whittle the pieces to any level of perfection you desire.

Detailed Guide

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