[Woodcarver] Carving with Sumac

[Ralph Scheffler]

Has anyone on the list carved with Sumac wood from Canada?  I know the wood is stringy but not that hard to carve in relief.  Will it accept detail with sharp tools?  Also, in the appearance of the wood it is yellowish in color - what would be the preferred finish to put on this wood to keep the grain showing through?  Will a stain make it too dark in appearance? 
This is my first usage of Sumac wood for relief carving, and then again it could be my last time if results don't improve.  
Thanks for your help.

Ralph in Palm Desert, CA

http://www.carvingsbyralph.com
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