I am building a fly rod with a 5” butt section of diamondback rattlesnake skin inlayed into the finish. The first layer of finish (PROKOTE) has been applied (over 3 coats of color preserver) and is almost dry. Now I am seeing a couple of tiny points sticking up where the scales from the snake skin were apparently raised. They are very small but can be seen in the finish.

Here is my question: Should I trust the second finish coat to cover the tiny raised points caused by the scales? Or, should I sand the first layer before applying the second coat of finish?

This is probably a pretty elementary question, but it is my first build and I am not sure how to proceed.

I appreciate any help I can get.

George Greensboro, N.C.

No need to sand just add the second coat.

Raymond Adams
Eventually, all things merge, and a river runs through it..

You can use a small file or emery board to knock down the high points then apply another coat of epoxy.

Or, shave them cleanly with a single edge razor blade, just knocking off the protruding tip.

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I agree with Raymond. You may need three coats. That is what I did with a similar problem.

Ed Snuth
Flat Rock, NC

Mike Adams and Tom Kirkman's approach is what I do and it works very well. If you just finish over a bump you'll likely have a smaller bump, but still a bump. Same solution when you get a bump from poorly trimmed thread. Cut it off, prepare the surface with scotchgard, wipe free of dust, then another coat of finish.

Michael. What is the purpose of the scotch guard?

I think he meant Scotchbrite. We all get tripped up over a word here and there sometimes.

.............

Sure. I know I do.

Thanks to all for your advice. I cut the protruding points with a razor blade then applied the second coat of finish. Results were great.
Thanks again,

Can anyone recommend a place to find rattlesnake skin that won't cost a fortune? I'm aware that mudhole has it, but I was hoping to find some cheaper.

Hello Chris.

Your nearest woods!

Good luck and move fast!

Bob,

New Bern, NC.

George Kerr Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Thanks to all for your advice. I cut the
> protruding points with a razor blade then applied
> the second coat of finish. Results were great.
> Thanks again,


Awesome.

Before reading that you went ahead I was going to say that there is no need to do anything after slicing with the razor. Some folks don't like the "look" of the razor cut mark and will bother with trying to sand it off, but that is completely unnecessary. Just slice & re-finish.

Glad it worked for you! Now post up pictures!!!

I found some by doing a search for "Rattle Snake Skins" on Bing