I recognize that I had some missteps along the way, and that my bow is not without flaw, but the process of completing my first Osage self bow has been more than worthwhile.
After shooting the bow a bunch, I applied--over the course of several days--nine coats of Tru-Oil then wiped it down with Johnson Paste Wax. Finally, I added a leather floppy rest then wrapped the handle with deerskin lace, soaking the deerskin lace with Johnson Paste Wax.
More than anything, I really appreciate all of the constructive advice that you guys provided during the process. For me the finished bow is nice and all, but the the process of working on it was the most satisfying.
Now, and I cannot believe I am saying this already, I cannot wait to get started on another one!