Well after rejecting many ideas for a frame I finally opted for something rustic and simple. Rounded off the corners and used 3/8" rope tacked and glued around the edge with a Concho provided by the Boss after her suggestion to use it to hide where the ends come together. I used 1 quick coat of Puritan Pine stain, wiped it off immediately after applying so as to keep it from being too dark. Wanted the weathered look of skin after exposure to sun and wind. The grain came out right by adding accent to the cheek bones.
Special thanks go out to Charlie Dearing for the pattern, and to Marion for the 1/8" BB ply to cut it from.
Without their contributions it wouldn't have been possible!
Don't ask how long it took, I don't bother keeping a log. I'm still pretty slow and with the fine detail I took my time. It was cut almost exclusively with FD SR - 1 blades, I did test some FD - spiral blades but wasn't comfortable and couldn't use it for the fine cuts.
I made it only 10 by 12" overall to fit my small wall space, so many of the cuts are too fine for the spiral blades.
After staining I used spray satin clear to seal it. Don't have the cans in front of me so i can't tell you the product names. Forgot to add I used black poster paper as a backer with 1/4" masonite behind that for strength.
Check the Gallery for the photo named Quigley.From The movie Quigley Down Under. My favorite movie by Tom Selleck!
I'll be posting the photo right after I finish the message.
I hope you all enjoy it. You might find this informative too.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quigley_Down_UnderGabby