I have just completed stripping an old longbow that is in excellent condition. The backing is a "rough glass" with two light wood core lams and a belly vaneer lam. The grip area and shelf are unique.
I am having a problem figuring out what to do with the riser wood as it is very dull. I tried some poly under where the leather grip will go and it is looks pretty dull.
I would like to stain the riser a dark ebony or ?? to contrast with a tan leather grip and the red / yellow belly vaneer.
Someone please make a suggestion on how to handle the riser (no pun intended) and if Poly Waterbased is alright for a finish. I am considering three coats of gloss and one coat of satin.
Thoughts Please!
(http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee21/f_thomas_2007/ReadytoStainandFinish.jpg)
(http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee21/f_thomas_2007/RightSideofGrip.jpg)
(http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee21/f_thomas_2007/GripRiserandLimbStripped.jpg)
Here are pics of the bow prior to the project beginning.
(http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee21/f_thomas_2007/ResizedRoughglassBack.jpg)
(http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee21/f_thomas_2007/RiserandBear.jpg)
(http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee21/f_thomas_2007/ResizedFullLength.jpg)
Can anyone recommend where to go to get the information I am looking for?