Finish for landscape relief?

[NewWVcarver]

I am a newer carver and would like some advice on finshes on a couple deep relief landscape carvings. I have a an golden oak stain a redish stain(i think it is labled pecan), and semi-gloss polyuerathane. I dont mind purchasing some new stuff for finishing. If i don't want to use the stains, the polyeurathane is a little to fake and shiny looking. Anyways, advice? any advice on removing spray adhesive and tape residue. Thank
Scotty

[jmuscel]

I learned a method called the SSW method from Bill Judt Sand, Seal and Wax. Looks beautiful. I use Paste wax.

[MelNM]

Assuming you are using Basswood, I have used the Golden Oak stain and it came out pretty good, but I also used carnuba wax on it too.

As far as removing residue, I have never done nothing like that, you may want to try Goo Gone, but I would experiment on another piece of wood. Same goes for the stain, test it on a piece of wood to see if its the finish you want.
Mel

[Ron Davidson]

If you are going to stain basswood use a prestain conditioner first. If you don't the stain will be blotchy ,darker in some areas. But for an even color use the conditioner. I use spar varnish semi gloss thinned down for a sealer. Works for me.
Ron

[pallin]

I like the satin finish polyurethane, and have finished some pieces with just linseed oil. Consider whether or not the items will be exposed to weather or humidity.

[achaundy]

If you are going to paint them realistic colors I woul use oil paint. Skip

[chuckbolton]

i do some relief carving and use water colors- and do mutliple coats of paint to get the shading i want-- i like WC on relief but prefer acrylics for my in the round carvings-- i have never used oils so cannot comment as to their applications. the point is -- find a medium and make it work for you.