What finishing techniques bring out the contrast in cedar’s growth rings for figurative works?

To highlight the natural beauty of cedar’s growth rings in figurative wood art, several finishing techniques can be employed. First, sanding is crucial—start with coarse grit (80-120) to remove tool marks, then progress to finer grits (220-400) to smooth the surface while preserving ring definition. Staining enhances contrast; use a light stain to darken the softer earlywood while allowing the denser latewood to resist absorption, creating a striking tonal difference. Alternatively, a wire brush can be used to selectively remove softer wood, deepening texture. Seal with a clear, non-yellowing finish like acrylic or water-based polyurethane to protect the wood while maintaining clarity. For added depth, apply a thin glaze or dye to accentuate the rings. These methods ensure the cedar’s natural patterns become the focal point of your figurative piece.