La Tavola restaurant sign 2014

A sign made for an Italian restaurant in Burlington, IA. Lettering and grape vine details are hand carved.

The inner area and grape vine are made from sapele and works very nicely, much like mahogany. The outer ring is made of a heat and smoke treated ask. It is not stained, only clear poly. The darkness is rich and consistent through out the wood. Unfortunately, it is very dry and brittle. Lovely wood but difficult to work due to splintering and high scrap rate. Wood was purchased at Clark’s Hardwood Lumber in Houston, Texas which has great selection you can choose yourself.