Transparent color on cottonwood bark

[Cottonwood]

I have been experimenting with coloring cottonwood bark. It is a challenge to add transparent color to bark...especially skin tones. I would be interested in hearing other peoples methods of doing this. Here is my latest attempt on a woodspirit.
What do you think? Any suggestions?

[Merle Rice]

Hi Millard, I like it, good job on the carving also. I started a Woodspirit in Cottonwood Bark and finding that it a nice medium to woork with, dirty but nice to work with.lol. Merle

[Cottonwood]

I certianly know what you mean by "dirty", Merle. I usually prepare several at the sames time for carving then I change clothes and shower!

[Preacher2nc]

Millard,

I really like this carving. I don't think I have ever seen color on cottonwood. I think it adds a great touch. Might not be right for ever kind of wood spirit, but I think it goes well with you style of carving. Keep it up.

[gumbyteeth04]

Millard;

Great job!! His face looks so real! Thanks for sharing.

Dan

[paolo59]

Beautiful carving. But, just a question. when you say "cottonwood bark", you mean you are using only the bark with no wood underlying? And, how much thick could be the bark?

[JSimpson]

I think it looks great. Don't see why you can't paint it like you want. It makes a good carving stand out.

[Cottonwood]

Preach, Dan and JSimpson, thanks for your comments.
Paolo59, yes, it is only the bark. In colder parts of the U.S.A. it can be nearly 6 inches thick. In Kansas, where I live, it usually only grows to around 2 or 3 inches thick on the very biggest of trees. Thiner bark can still be used for carving faces and fantasy houses etc. in relief. Thanks for your interest.

[Dan C]

Millard - Love the carving and think that the coloring is just right. I don't see any reason for not adding color to the bark - it's just a matter of personal preference. I'm glad you experimented - it's nice to see how it looks. I'm working on a cottonwood bark spirit face and may try adding color myself. Did you use acrylics? Actually it would be nice to know about the whole finishing process - such as acrylics, lacquer, wax. Thanks for sharing!

Dan C.

[artolver]

I have used Meltonian Bootcream for 35 years. This has been on told on the board many times. You can find it in Westernware store. Neutral is clear and spreads like boots. They have a lot of colors for cowdoys n girls.

art olver thebarkguy