[Whimsy_Carver]

I am an experienced, sorta, carver but new to cottonwood bark. After doing some gnome abodes I tried my hand at doing a wood spirit. The carving was ok but it seemed to need some highlighting or darkening in some of the facial features. I used some dark Minwax jel BUT now it is TOO dark. How would you suggest that I lighten up say the nose, cheeks, fore head? Any help would really be appreciated.

Thanks

[wood-whittler]

jim,


you may be able to wash some of it off with mineral spirits, it may lighten it up some.


bart

[pallin]

You might also try household bleach. I can remember using some commercial bleach to lighten wood years ago, but it was probably too strong for what you want to do on your carving.

[Whimsy_Carver]

Problem solved. Thanks, Wood Whittler/Bart. The mineral spirits took care of the problem. I will try to get a picture of the piece to post. One can actually see that the characters have eyes and such now. Looks like I won't have to try the bleach this time.

Jim