I have my nails in pairs opposite each other and about 2inches apart. Alternating rows are at right angles.
I have about half the stick covered with a bare bit in the middle for rattling, rubbing and clattering.

The bottom 18inches I leave bare to tune it to G and I leave the top couple of inches bare as well so I can bash it on the top for a harmony to the mid point bashing area.

The rattle sticks were turned on a lathe by a friend and are made of deal.

The splinters didn't really bother me for a few years, then I wrapped the bare bit with some masking tape for a while. I took it off in the end because it made the stick go a bit flat so now i put up with the splinters and will take a bit of sandpaper to it if they start biting back.

Mine has a crutch foot on the end for rebound. Boots and stuff raise a smile but ruin the playability as do silly heads and ribbons on the top.