Natural versus stained chip carving

[Kenny_S]

You sure do have a way with words Mark.ROTFLMHO!! Sorry couldn't resist.

[CarverRog]

Mark, the darkness in the chips is created by the finishing process I use which allows the chips to take the stain more in the exposed end grain. I also have another finishing process that just highlights the chips but still looks like the natural finish.
I have found that a lot of people like the stained better because of the contrast.

[Ashbys]

I think they look great. The contrast strikes the eye just really bringing out the work. Nice work.

Great depth , and Mark paid you an excellect compliment. Your consistancy of the quality of your work has to be extreame to confuse your work with that of a laser . From someone that uses one everyday, there are things that make the work stand out as not being made by a laser.

Again excellent work.

Garry

[mark yundt]

That's what I figured Roger.I would imagine that many like to see the contrast.Your work has always been very consistent,,but I'd never confuse it with a laser as Gary points out.

[Stryder7]

both are wonderful... but i think the stained ones are fantastic... really beautiful and really shows the work you've put into it
Marianne

[paolo59]

Usually I like the natural wood, but in this case the stained one is fantastic.
I'm very interested in the second finishing methos you mentioned. Could you tell me something more?
Paolo

[CarverRog]

When I want a chip carving stained and there to be a contrast in positive and negative spaces I will spray a light coat of clear lacquer on the piece to be carved then laypout the pattern and chip carve it. After the surface is cleaned up I will then spray another light coat of lacquer followed by staining with a gel stain and the several coats of lacquer. I hope this helps. Thanks for asking!

[Dicky]

They are both good but the stain really makes the carving jump out at the viewer. Being a stain "chicken", I am really interested in the technique you used. Thanx for the tip.

[masso]

Stained version!
Good job, i like them!

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

I prefer the natural...looks much richer to me..but wadda eye kno?