- 1). Locate a thick stand of willow in a wet area, such as a swamp or bog. The fungus that causes the diamond pattern thrives in dark, wet areas, so a group of tightly packed willows in standing water will likely yield some diamonds.
- 2). Clip the branches off of the willow tree. The best branches are between one and three inches thick. Always make sure that you have permission to harvest before picking anything.
- 3). Peel off the bark of the willow branches with the knife. You will see the diamond pattern and any patterns left from insects with the bark removed.
- 4). Dry the wood slowly. Willow wood that is dried slowly will be less likely to crack or break. For the best results, let it air dry during the winter months, indoors.
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