[Woodcarver] Finishing techniques and bark removal

[Kevin B. Johnson]

Thanks to everyone for ideas on developing caricatures. Much
appreciated. I'll be making some investment in a couple of recommended
books, and will try my hand at clay sculpture as a means to developing
my caricatures.

A couple of other questions to the experts on the list:

1. Where can I get general information on finishing techniques? I've
heard/read about tung oil, boiled linseed oil, varnishes, stains,
shellacs, waxes, etc....but don't know where to start. I just started
with acrylic washes and dry brushing for caricatures, but don't know
about finishes on top of acrylics, or about finishes for bark and stick
carvings. I would prefer to work with water-based methods since I won't
need messy solvents and cleanup would be easier. Can I get the results I
need going this route? 

2. What is the best method for removing bark from walking sticks? Draw
knife, or other techniques? Also, should bark removal be done when the
sticks are green or when dried?

Thanks a bunch for everyone's thoughts and suggestions.

Regards,
Kevin