staining a bow with dirt

[THoward]

I have some great red dirt I found near Reno and would like to color a self horse bow.  I am not sure I want to make primitive paint for fear of cracking.  I was thinking I could add the powder, after grinding, to the first few coats of tru oil???   I need your thoughts on how to help me use this red dirt to color the bow.  Any and all ideas will be helpful.  Thanks

Ps.  I'll try to post some pics when I get it done.

[iowabow]

Hey did you see my arrow post on paint. I think it would work great. Maybe apply a coat of dust then gring the minerial real good and test before painting on the bow.

[AngelDeVille]

I don't see why it wouldn't work. I have used charcoal mixed with rubbing alchohol to dye leather many times.

[Chassit]

Perhaps waxing it after the paint would prevent cracking?

[Pat B]

I use finely ground charcoal of whitewood bows. I've worked it in with water, alcohol and bear fat, all with good results.