Need some tips on finishing

Sheri · #1 06-23-2008, 05:11 PM

I have been carving for several years but just recently have decided to try chainsaw carving. So a couple of weeks ago I bought a new saw and made myself a cute little bear. Now I have really no idea on how to finish him in order to protect him from cracking, molding, etc. I really love a more natural finish but I have heard many people say that an oil based paint is the best way to protect your carving from the elements. Any help would be appreciated.

dicktilley20 · #2 06-24-2008, 03:25 AM

Little bear needs care....

I some times use decking oil or protector for quick carvings, the customer can then carry on using the same or apply varnish.

I also use an exterior silk finish but wipe off the excess between coats, this leaves a hard durable finish.

Pure linseed can go black and mouldy, trial and error you will find what is good for you.

Got a picture of the little bark scratcher?

dick

Sheri · #3 06-24-2008, 05:25 AM

Ended up using Woodsman solid deck stain in black. Kinda wish I would have just left him burnt but live and learn I guess. Thank you for the info. Will get a pic of him tonight after I finish him up

Bman · #4 06-24-2008, 08:21 AM

I have been using Cabot's Australian timber oil in natural for all my brown bears and benches and I love it. Easy to apply and protects from sun, wind and rain.

dicktilley20 · #5 06-24-2008, 02:10 PM

The trouble with burning Sheri is that it tends to fade after a while, brown bears are OK too!

Live and learn....

dick

Sheri · #6 06-24-2008, 04:32 PM

The little booger now has a nice size crack in him from the bottom, afraid he will split wide open. That stain still hasn't dried either. Ugh the finishing isn't going well.

Will still get a pic of him though.

Sheri · #7 06-24-2008, 04:59 PM

Here he is. Ne's not totally finished, he might want some eyes, but I thought he was pretty decent for my first bear.

dicktilley20 · #8 06-24-2008, 05:52 PM

Hey S! Great lil' first bear, he does need some pork pies tho! (eyes)

There is an eye tool you may find usefull, I tried one recently on a couple of badgers.
I think you can get them from chainsawsculptue.com

chaninsaw intro

Eyes in a trice!

dick

Ron T · #9 06-24-2008, 09:15 PM

Hi Sheri,

Very nice first chainsaw carving. I'm depressed, I mean impressed.

brianh · #10 06-24-2008, 09:36 PM

On my small bears I plunge the carving bar up from the base to about an inch from the top of the head, I usually do the cut in two or more directions so it looks like a plus sign under the bear.
It seems to help a lot on checking on the small stuff, I hate putting a relief cut down the back on the little ones.