Skinning a Wapiti Build Along (Snakeskin Applique & Photos)

[MSwickard]

ttt

[The Ursus]

Thanks for the tips Mike, I'm using your process on a PSE recurve that's been collecting dust.  So far I've gotten one limb skinned that now needs some trimming.  I plan on tackling the other limb this week.  I'm useing a couple of diamond back skins that a friend killed while working on his Texas ranch house.  Will post pics when done.

[MSwickard]

Ursus

Can't wait to see it!  One thing that I would highly recommend that I've learned in this process is make sure you do enough coats of varathane.  Because the weather has not been much above 55 F, I have only gotten three coats on my limbs.  I've been shooting it and went to a 3D shoot this past Sunday.  Noticed that I'm getting a little lifting of the Varathane on some edges.  Nothing really crucial, just have to go back and sand and reshoot it.  6 coats should do alot better.

Have a good one

Mike

[RainCrow]

Those limbs look great.  Good Job, and nice instructions.

I believe the CA step is just a different way of applying a Massey finish, without the Acetone.

I have a Morrison with copperhead skins, and it DOES look like the skins are impregnated into the limb.

-Terry

[Jim Moore]

Great work!  Were those skins tanned or treated first in any way?

[The Ursus]

Hey Jim, the skins I'm using are just dried.  I think that's what most guys do with'em.  They are from the same batch of skins that Chris used on his longbow this spring during Steve's bowbuilding class.

[MSwickard]

Jim

Use dried skins and not tanned.

Mike

[Jim Moore]

Hey thats great.  Makes it easier.  LOL.  I never got to see Chris's bow after the skins were put on.  did get to see the finished product though.  Liked your bow the best.  

Luke, hope this finds you doing well.  I understand that you are a happily married man?  Excellent and many blessing on ya!  Just got a letter from Steve today.  Guess he is almost done with his house.  Looked good from the pic.  

I am starting to miss  it up there.  Two months and the boats would be in the water.  Black bears running rampant!  ahhh man!!!  LOL.  

Take care Luke.  Dandy goat by the way.

[MSwickard]

TTT for Bob

[The Ursus]

Here's a limb I did following Mike's instructions.
 http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v674/alaskan_waters/Archery/03archeryfriendscamping008.jpg

[Nimr0d]

Mike, Im in the middle of this project, no problems so far.  Wow, a lot easier than I thought it would be!  thanks for the helpful photos and instructions.

I am skinning a big 5 hill longbow and have the first coat of CA on.

I am going to sand and reapply later tonight.  How thick can I build this up?  I'd Like a smooth finish on the front.  Should I accomplish that finish with varathane or CA?

Also, on finishing sealant.  Varathane or miniwax poly?  Pro's and cons of each?  The poly states for indoor applications but Ive heard of several folks on here using it for bow finishes.

Thoughts?

[String Cutter]

How do you trim around the tip overlays? And are there any tricks to cutting the edges? When I tried a couple of years ago on a hatfeild. It turned out wavey. The edges of the limbs were rounded and I had trouble holding a straight line. Any help would be great. Thanks

[spider1]

To get the skin smooth after the titebond dries, the scales must be removed. Use some sticky duct tape. Stick it on, rub it in good and peal it off. the scales will come right off. You might have to do it a few times but the skin will be smooth. Then finish it any way you want.

[devildog66]

Great write-up and should  be destined for the "how-to".

[mullskinner]

awsome write up !!!!!!!!!!!!
gave me some idea's on my next bow!!i skin!!!!!
thanks for posting ..