I've experimented with different materials for outer stems, but haven't arrived at one I'm happy with so far. I've used cedar that was steamed and bent into shape, but it gets so noodly that it folds a bit. And cedar is too soft for what I'm hoping for. I've also steamed a hardwood, which works well enough I suppose.

But I keep thinking there is some modern material like PVC or hdpe that is waiting out there, ready to use. It would need to be durable, a decent color, and flexible enough to take the bends without cracking or noodling.

Anyone have any ideas, or material you have used that you recommend?