Idea for top bar hive-- please comment

[Eve Sylvia]

I am wondering if adding sides made of bent rattan, in a parabolic shape which would fit the sloped hive box, would be a good idea in a top bar hive. I know bees like that shape, and it might make working the hive easier. If the rattan were soaked and inserted into drilled holes on the ends of the top bar it might work well.
What do others think of this idea?

Thanks,

Eve

[Robo]

Something like this?
http://www.beesource.com/eob/althive/birkey/index.htm

[Eve Sylvia]

YES!

Just like that!

I will read that carefully, thanks.

[Eve Sylvia]

Actually,
He uses wood, not rattan, which (rattan) might be a lot easier, and it looks from his combs like the size might be a bit large, but I'm no expert here. Anyway, this is very similar to what I'm thinking of.
Eve

[Daddys Girl]

Check out basket weaving supplies in your local craft store.  I cannot promise anything that will be especially rigid, but there are reeds and weaver materials that might lend some rigidity to a comb.

[Michael Bush]

>I know bees like that shape

It's the shape of a comb being started, but it's not the shape of a comb when they are done, unless that's the shape of the cavity and it almost never is.  I don't think bees have a preference on the shape.

> and it might make working the hive easier.

It makes a good self supporting comb as the weight seems to be well distributed.

> If the rattan were soaked and inserted into drilled holes on the ends of the top bar it might work well.
What do others think of this idea?

Getting it to bend in a uniform way would be my only worry.  Otherwise I think it's a great idea.