I have seen photos of a different decorative add on to rods called G- Urushi. Looks pretty nice too. But, I have not seen any write ups on how to do this technique. Does anyone have a tutorial on this. Material list? And how to complete.

i googled this up on it

[www.google.com]

Bill - willierods.com

Probably the best instruction I can give on the G-Urushi is to look up the Instagram site of Brent Ikari, satocustomrods. There are some beautiful examples of Brent's works starting right from the basics to the finished product.
Basically, the abalone shell (or whatever you decide to use) is broken up into pieces. Not too big or you will have a big job sanding them back. Glue the shell fragments onto the blank with the rough side up. I use super glue. Then using pigments to colour your epoxy finish. you apply coats of various colours. I usually start with a darker colour but it really doesn't matter. Once it is all dry, I allow about 24 hours, commence sanding it back on a lathe going through various grades of sandpaper from 40 grade right through to about 400. It should take roughly about 15 minutes on average depending on the thickness of the shell. You can also only apply a couple of colours as a base, then sand it half way down, apply some more colour and then continue sanding. The reason you glue the shell on with the rough side up is that the good shell will be closest to the blank and the rest is just limestone. Sand down until you are happy with the colour of the shell coming through the layers of epoxy. Clean the blank and all your fittings up with denatured alcohol and then apply 1-2 coats of clear finish. The colours explode with brightness.There are different techniques to get differing results. No two will ever be the same and they have to be seen in the "flesh" to appreciate the colours and the skill of the builder. Brent Ikari is the best IMHO of this art from. Finally, wear a very good quality breathing mask as the shell dust can be carcinogenic.

Best Regards
Mark
Outback Rods

Bill and Mark, thank you for the replies.