Replies

1. 
   _mj_ | Aug 26, 2021 06:56am | #1

   I have put bark back with TB2 and with epoxy. Cleaning both surfaces is key. If a section of the bark is falling apart in your hands you're better off leaving the blank spot. File back the edges to keep them from catching objects sliding on the surface.

2. 
   beasleysevin | Aug 26, 2021 06:06pm | #2

   Let me start by saying I think it's a bad idea to keep the bark on. It will be difficult to keep clean and it will always try to catch clothes or blankets or whatever. But if that's what the customer wants....

   I agree with MJ. Get both edges super clean and reattach with epoxy. I would also paint both edges with a layer of epoxy and let it dry before reattaching. You should also do all of your surface sanding before reattaching bark. Saw dust sticks to bark like Velcro.

3. 
   mikaol | Aug 26, 2021 08:21pm | #3

   I've read every article I could find on live edge furniture. The consensus is the bark will eventually fall off so it should be removed. Personally, I don't think the bark's all that aesthetically pleasing. At least not on the live edge canarywood coffee table I'm working on now.
   My feelings aside, I agree with the others. Epoxy's the way to go if you must.
   Mikaol

4. 
   concealed | Aug 27, 2021 09:22pm | #4

   As a clarification, the board will be used by a local taxidermist for a coyote display. With the epoxy, are they all 2 part? I was thinking of using a high gloss polycrylic to seal it, in that case what would be best, no bark or can something be done to help the bark match the board? Thanks.

1. 
   rob_ss | Aug 28, 2021 01:34am | #5

   Epoxy is all 2 part. The parts react together to form the bond. Pick one with a long open time. (Don't go for 5 minute here - standard araldite will work for 30 mins or so) and be careful to avoid squeezout - cleanup is usually with a rag dampened (but not soaked) in acetone.

   The point of bark is to provide contrast and a 'natural' appearance so I would not seal it. Once you try to clean it enough to get finish to adhere well, it loses a lot of its natural appeal.

   The kind of bark matters a lot too - elm and willow are very rugged, oak less so and birch is smoother.

   I have never tried to finish bark, but were I to do so, I would spray on shellac or lacquer as these will adhere well and can be built up in very thin coats. Any dribble and it's game over.