Honestly, I think a better solution would be to use a different item for later game objects, a stick really shouldn't be used for high quality tools and machinery. I think adding a draw knife to make rods and handles from planks or squared beams would be a better solution, making mid to late game rely less on grabbing sticks and focus more on industrialization. If I make a concerted effort to grab sticks, than I find enough for my purposes, but it feels less rewarding and more like I've gone back to square one.
