Mark a 3-inch-long handle area in the mid-section of the 5-foot wood piece that will become the bow.
File the bow handle down with the rasp so it is smooth. The handle should comfortably fit the size and shape of your hand.
Use the rasp to file the ends of the bow wood, leaving a 1/2-inch section in the center of each end flat with the outer edges angling evenly in toward the center.
Cut 1/2-inch notches in both bow-end tips. Make the notches about 1/4-inch deep. This is where the artificial sinew string for the bow will be strung. Slightly angle the notches inward to prevent the sinew from slipping out once it's strung into the bow.
Boil a large vat of water, and soak the bow in it to soften the wood. If a large vat is not available, try using a sponge with hot water. Saturate the wood while bending it at the same time. Bend the softened wood into a curved shape.
Dry the bow wood. String the sinew tightly through the notches on either end. Oil the wood with lard, vegetable oil or olive oil to soften it.
Purchase commercial-grade arrowheads from a local craft store or from online sources.
Cut a notch using the rasp in the end of each of the 3-foot dowels. The notch should fit the bottom shape of the arrowhead points. If you want to insert decorative feathers into the other end of the arrows, groove out notches for those to also fit.
Insert the arrow tips into the notches. Wrap artificial sinew around the arrow tips and the pieces of wood to secure the arrowhead firmly to the arrow. Knot and secure the sinew by lighting it with a match or lighter flame. Let the sinew burn down until it forms a secure, knotted ball on the ends.