Borris loves his sticks - I don't have mine covered, but I tried to wrap it with rope - fail! The branches I have my dad found for walking sticks, so I cooked them in the oven for a little while (I forget what temp, but I think for 1/2 hour or something) - the bark on them is pretty thick, not too bad. He manages it fine, but it does tend to be a little difficult to climb up (his hands slip, but he manages). I'd love to wrap it in carpet - I'll have to find a square! Great idea