question about finishing a project

[GrandpaB]

I have a project to create about 200 small wooden signs. The signs will have some V-Carve text that needs to be colored so that there is contract with the background. I would like to color the text a dark brown and leave the background the natural pine color. After coloring I am thinking that the sign will receive a coat or two of polyutherene. I would appreciate suggestion on how I caol color the V-carved text. Thanks

[FixitMike]

I put a coat or two of gloss varnish or other clear finish on the wood before I VCarve. Then VCarve, and fill with acrylic paint, wiping off the excess with a damp rag. After it dries, I sand off what didn't wipe off. If the wood has an open grain like walnut or oak, I use filler first to get a smooth surface.

If the lettering is small, I may use a start depth of .005" for the VCarving to give me a little safety factor for the sanding. I may also kern the text so there is more space between the letters.

Last, a coat or two of the desired finish. This can be satin, even if I used gloss for the pre-coats.

Note: Clear acrylic won't change the wood color, if that is what you want.

[antennasDIY]

You need to seal where you carved or the pine will bleed every time. Seal the letters then paint and it will turn out nice.

[FixitMike]

You need to seal where you carved or the pine will bleed every time. Seal the letters then paint and it will turn out nice.

Absolutely! I left that out.

[GrandpaB]

Gentlemen,

Thanks, for your assistance.