I have seen some really great carvings here that were
made from bleached basswood. I'm sorry but I don't remember
who did them but they were great. Could anyone give me a brief summary on how to do this? Or a long one I don't care. ??? Â*Jimmo

Go to your home center and check in the stain section. There is a two part wood bleach that I can't remember the name of off hand. Anyhow, the directions are on the box. I've also used Clorox, but it takes many applications and still doesn't get as deep.

Hi,
The two-part bleach, Kleen Strip Wood Bleach, is the best one I've found. You'll need heavy rubber gloves and good air curculation--preferably outside or in shop. Sometimes it takes repeated application for wood other than Basswood, but I've never had to use more than one for Bwood. I've used it for angels and polar bears and it comes out a beautiful creamy ivory look. For the polar bear I used a really light gray/blue thinned really thin to highlight the muscle/shadowed area and black for nose and eyes. That was it!

Seems to me that I got the Kleen Strip at a Sherwin Wlliams store, but its been awhile. There are other brands. The animal carver, Debbe Edwards, recommended this product and it's worked great.

Good Luck!
Donna T

Donna & Eddie
Hey thanks for the info. I am definately going to try it. I am
assuming you bleach it after the carving is done. Is this correct?

Yep,
You carve it
Then you bleach it,
Then you neutralize it,
Then you dry it,
Then you put whatever kind of finish you want--paint, seal,lacquer,wax... whatever. Be sure to follow directions and vent well--its caustic but the results can be awesome.
Donna T