2nd and 3rd attempt

[mnewcomb59]

Just a tip - If you use boo on the belly and fastflex on the back you will retain lots more reflex. Fastflex isnt particularly strong in compression, and coupled with bamboo on the back could be why you didnt retain more reflex. If you switch it around the bamboo on the belly will be alot more compression strong and might turn out better. The fiddleback pattern looks really good. What did you use for the dye? Rit? I cant wait to see #3.

[Gordon]

If those are only your 2nd and 3rd attempts then the rest of us are all in trouble 

Those turned out very nice indeed.

[DBernier]

Really beautiful job Artie. Have you tried 0000 steel wool to fade out your die job. That is what I use. Don't forget you can use Acetone to remove it all and start again. I use the Tandy leather die after I scrape and sand the back. I learned a lot from a friend of mine. Practice, practice, practice. Your skill with design and composition tells me you are talented in other areas also.

Dick Bernier