Staining/Coloring the edges of limb cores.

[Burnsie]

I've always thought about building, or having built, an "all" black bow. I think the right style of bow would look real sleek and slick being all black. Black glass, black G10 riser, black tips - but you would always end up with the contrast of the edges of whatever limb core material you used. Would there be any good process to stain or color the core edges (maple, bamboo) before spraying on the finish?

[Kirkll]

Have done all different types of stain, and even painted the edges...... the only issue is being careful no to get any on the belly or back glass. If you do it needs to be sanded lightly with 320 grit paper before finishing.

Here is one I just finished with a snake skin camouflage paint job and black edges with 3 sets of limbs.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/XzP9Njn9Qo8vvjYA6.

[Burnsie]

Thanks Kirk!

[Mo_coon-catcher]

Try a walnut core and hit the exposed wood with the steel wool vinegar mix. Walnut turns black and I don't think would have any effect on the glass

Kyle

[Richard Korte]

I've stained the edges of several bows using Transtint dyes dissolved in denatured alcohol. After careful hand-sanding with 400 grit, I apply the dye with a Q-tip. Then dry, I apply a layer of thin superglue, also with a Q-tip, then lightly smooth it with a fine Scotchbrite (Gray) pad. Works perfectly every time!     Richard

[Burnsie]

Thanks guys!

[Longcruise]

An all black such as you describe has been on my to do list for a while.  I'm planning to go with a plain maple riser, maple cores and of course black glass.  I plan to color the maple with India ink.