What finish to make the details on a 3D carving stand out?
All I could think of is shellac, followed by gel stain, wiped off the high points with mineral spirits, but when I tested it, I thought it looked a little muddy.
Muddy Mess:
The one I don 't want to mess up:
Thoughts on how best to make the detail stand out?
Re: What finish to make the details on a 3D carving stand out?
I'm no expert, but I think it's the image itself that needs some processing to make it more contrast. Sharper edges, highlighted contours, fewer small details... See how well the letters stand out?
Re: What finish to make the details on a 3D carving stand out?
Hi Matt - Do a test with white PVA diluted 50:50 with water. Its like shellac really thin needs several coats (like a wash really I use a rag or foam brush, prefer rag for that sort of texture) to fill and level. can be tinted. Once filled or level can keep going makes a nice satin varnish in about 10 coats. Only for indoor use. If outdoor then urethane is the go... Peter