Staining a Multi Layer Sign

[TNWALKINGHORSE]

I saw this sign and really like the look of the contrasting colors on the multiple layers. Question is, what is the process to get this look. I have been making signs like this, but only have been using 1 color stain. I have searched the forums and could not find any info. If anyone knows or can point me in the right direction, I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks again!

http://www.talkshopbot.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=24694&stc=1

[bleeth]

Looks like the letters are separate pieces prefinished and glued on.
Cutting a slight inlay pocket for the pieces makes placement work perfect.

[scottp55]

Dave,
Kinda think it may be an example from these people?
They do wonderful work, but I think it's all one piece/layered text?
https://www.etsy.com/shop/Lovejoystore?ref=listing-shop-header-item-count

[TNWALKINGHORSE]

Yes it is all one piece and carved in layers. That link is exactly what I am talking about. I already made one similar to the ones on the link, but still not stained or painted. I need to get it done by May 10th for our anniversary. Any suggestions or links to help? Thanks! :-)

[bob_s]

I had a similar situation with some cabinet detail. Sorry no pics available but our solution is below
I coated the work with 2 coats of General Finishes "high performance" water based finish. I used the Flat but the satin is readily available, flat can be ordered direct. Then I used one of their water based stains with 20% of the finish added to paint in the detail with a small brush. The 2 coats underneath allowed me to wipe off any mistakes with a wet q tip if I was fairly quick, and the 20% finish made the stain bond to the area below. When you have added enough detail just put another 2 coats of "high-performance" on top. It dries quickly and sands very well with some 320 in between coats. The doors have been in use now for over a year with no sign of any problems. The owner of General finishes is a paint chemist, and he said as long as you add a little of the finish to the stain it will bond to his hardened finish below.

[scottp55]

Thanks Bob,
Just used my very first water based last week and it was GF Woodturners Finish.
https://generalfinishes.com/retail-products/water-base-top-coats-sanding-sealers/wood-turners-finish#tabset-tab-11
Very surprised by how deep it seemed to sink in And how fast you could re-coat. DID raise grain but knocked down Fast with 320G like you said.
Love not having to leave small shop because of fumes:)
Need to look at their other products now.
Got a piece of "Punky Quilted" I might try it on to see if it firms it up enough to get fine detail out of as it penetrates so well.
Thanks again for tips on multi level finishing!
scott

[WMNH]

Love the signs in the Etsy store Scott posted in post#3. How are they getting such a nice finish in pine? How are they making any money? I would have to charge 3 times that.

[scottp55]

I wondered the same thing when I saw their prices, all I can say is they must be "Dialed In" to Heck and beyond, and have something like a Fladder sander.
At 11,000+ sales at $80+ per, they're doing Something better than me! :)
As slow as I am, I'd have to charge that for the design!!!:(
scott