Swirl/Wavy/Burl arrow stains

[jmack]

I've recently seen some pictures of wild arrow stains. All kinds of swirly, wavy, burl finishes that are just cool. Anybody know the secret and care to share?

[Nate Steen .]

Varnish the shaft first to seal it. A couple of coats...then  steel wool to make them smooth.  Then while wearing latex/nitrile gloves dip fingers in stain or paint and swirl onto shaft creating the desired effect and then set the shaft aside to dry.