Petey, I did use a template to rough cut them close and then I used a sled fixture to trim them to size, as you can see, I have one side marked for the first two cut and the other side marked for the second two. I just screwed the clamps in the other direction after one side was done. It was a matter of rough cut, trim, rough cut, trim. The ebonizing method I use is one I read years ago from Brian Boggs How To Ebonize Wood | Popular Woodworking . The dye is basically a jar of vinegar with a pad of steel wool placed in it for a couple of days. it works great on high tannin wood like oak or ash. I also add tannin to the wood with tree bark tea (used in tanning leather). I have had great results, but I have been meaning to try the transtint dyes.
-- Paul--- Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep. — Scott Adams
