silver wire inlay question

[curly]

I've decided to add silver wire inlay to a rifle that has already been finished. Can I do it, or is it to late.
I am concerned about wetting the area for the wood expansion. Suggestions appreciated.

Curly

[Dave B]

I had talked with Mark Silver about this a long while back and he recommended using Cleosne' Sp? wire. Its round wire run through a jewelers roller flattened to the thickness you want. it produces a nice rounded over edge. The rounded over part removes the need to file the wire. You must pay closer attention to how you finish the ends of the wire before you put it in where you join the tendrils. If you leave them a little proud you can touch them up before setting the wire flush. I wouldn't be concerned about wetting the stock to tighten up on wire. Your just dampening the wood not slathering it.

[curly]

Thanks Dave, I'll give it a try. I have a jeweler friend that I think, might be able to set me right up.

Curly

[mtgraver]

My opinion, if you built the gun and know what the finish and such is, then do the wire work as you want, finish the way you're comfortable and redo the finish or blend it in. The same process goes into restoration but we generally don't know what the dye/stain used, in your case it is all apparent. Should not be a problem if you're confident in your skills, have some fun.
Mark