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Main Boards => The Bowyer's Bench => Topic started by: Jim Rocole on April 17, 2012, 02:48:00 PM

Title: Snakeskin finish?
Post by: Jim Rocole on April 17, 2012, 02:48:00 PM
I am in the process of putting a couple of layers of super glue over snakeskin on some TD longbow limbs. The how-to says to use Spar over as a sealer but can I use Thunderbird?
Title: Re: Snakeskin finish?
Post by: PEARL DRUMS on April 17, 2012, 02:50:00 PM
That super glue may get ya' later. It has a tendencey to lift under the urathane and leave cloudy spots. You can use any sealer you chose over super glue.
Title: Re: Snakeskin finish?
Post by: Pat B on April 17, 2012, 07:34:00 PM
I have heard bad things about superglue on skins under other finishes. Apparently it was cracking after a period. I've never seen it but read about it here on TG.
Title: Re: Snakeskin finish?
Post by: Brock on April 17, 2012, 08:34:00 PM
what made you use super glue...I have done half a dozen snake skins...

I use Elmers Wood glue or Gorilla Glue to put skins on roughed up limbs....after dry...trim with exacto knife...ensure all scales are removed...clean up good with water.  Let dry again...then spray with 3-5 coats of Varathane for water proofing.

I would stick tried and true...plus if you ever use DEET bug spray or the skins get moisture in them...much easier to remove and replace with no damage to bow with my method.  not sure that super glue is as forgiving.

Good luck whatever you decide...
Title: Re: Snakeskin finish?
Post by: Jim Rocole on April 17, 2012, 09:27:00 PM
When with the super glue after reading the how-to section on how to do snakeskins. I think it was OL Adcock tecnique used to fill in the skins.
Title: Re: Snakeskin finish?
Post by: T Folts on April 17, 2012, 09:40:00 PM
Yes you can use thunderbird over skins.
Title: Re: Snakeskin finish?
Post by: BigJim on April 18, 2012, 06:47:00 AM
Buffalo Hide / same product as the original Tbird only improved is fantastic for snakes.

Don't use the superglue. It also has a tendancy to look milky under finish also.

three coats of the Buffalo, then a light wet sanding and then coat to desired texture.
MAKE SURE YOU CLEAN THE SKINS WELL BEFORE FINISHING!
BigJim