I want to share a project and finishing technique the CBs (Construction Battalion) use to build commemorative plaques for the troops departing their command here at Camp Lemonnier, Africa.

They have a template of the African continent and use a scroll saw to cut the outline. All we get out here is pine so they try to dress it up by touching it with a propane torch. It adds a nice rustic touch. But the lettering!? This is the first time I was introduced to LiquiTex.

Here's the snapshot:

1. Print whatever you want on a piece of paper as a mirror image and cut away as much of the paper as you can.
2. Coat the location on the wood where the lettering will go with the LiquiTex.
3. Place the paper ink side down.
4. Use a roller to get all the bubbles out.
5. Let it dry (overnight) then use water and light pressure to wash away the paper.
6. The option remains to finish it with varnish or shellac.

This also works with full color pictures and pretty much whatever else you can print. The higher the quality of the printer, the better the results. It's not uncommon to bed a coin into the plaque as well, especially at the "Horn".

Cheers,
Matt

Thanks for the tip, Matt! That's a really viable alternative to a laser.

May have to try this. Thanks for the info.