How would you paint this

[magic]

This isn't popping. Should I put a black line around the head • paint the background green and all the raised parts gold OR what?
5600

[myxpykalix]

ask those with experience with gel stains. I can't explain it, but when i've seen it, it makes details pop.

[GlenP]

Magic, have you got a clear finish on the head yet? If you do you may have to sand it to get stain to penetrate. I use gel stains exclusively. I don't like penetrating stains as they leave too much "pitch" in the grain (dark oily marks). Try a dark gel stain applying lightly with a clean rag. I dab a bit of stain on the rag and work it into the rag so it goes on lightly and rub the stain on till desired effect. You can create some extra shaded areas by lightly sanding the stain. Try some samples or cut the horse head again on another piece of material and play with it. You can keep the extra piece as a sample to show customers or show off on the shop wall. Good Luck and keep us posted on your result. You may want the edges darker and any higher spots.

[magic]

The whole thing is a sample.

I thought that a green background with gold letters was an option but it seems you like gels