Bark Siding

Has anyone ever attempted to make their own bark siding, any special tools or tricks ? I am aware it should be done in the spring when the sap is at its peak then cured flat on a pallet with steel banding straps would be my guess, they say the old chestnut bark siding used to last forever but of course there was a blight, now most companies are using poplar, all replies are welcome, Thanks G. Beck