[Matt Clara]

All I could think of is shellac, followed by gel stain, wiped off the high points with mineral spirits, but when I tested it, I thought it looked a little muddy.

Muddy Mess:

The one I don 't want to mess up:

Thoughts on how best to make the detail stand out?

Thanks!

[CitizenOfDreams]

I'm no expert, but I think it's the image itself that needs some processing to make it more contrast. Sharper edges, highlighted contours, fewer small details... See how well the letters stand out?

[Matt Clara]

Thanks for the response. The carving represents an already exaggerated version of MI's topography. It's awfully flat here. https://tangrams.github.io/heightmap...45.086/-81.713

[peteeng]

Hi Matt - Do a test with white PVA diluted 50:50 with water. Its like shellac really thin needs several coats (like a wash really I use a rag or foam brush, prefer rag for that sort of texture) to fill and level. can be tinted. Once filled or level can keep going makes a nice satin varnish in about 10 coats. Only for indoor use. If outdoor then urethane is the go... Peter