In all fairness, Earl didn't have to deal with the insane playing field now. Taiwan and Europe weren't powerhouses then..The Philippines didn't have a dozen monsters yet.
If the forearm has points, it makes sense to do it on the forearm.
If it has no points ( specially if it's cored) you can tenon to the handle.
I use a 14"+ core and go to the handle
I prefer XX/paper on my torrified maple shafts.
Canvas is rough on the radial taps and live threader.
Canvas is good for one-piece ferrule tip breaker and collars and caps though.
Just like any material now, you also have to pick the best pieces if possible. Not all phenolics are the same..I...