Hi all, Did this carving out of a log that had much rot in the middle. I worked around it best I could and removed almost all of the soft wood. The bottom by the open hole still has some fragility that I hope to sturdy up some how. Any suggestions on how to reinforce the base? I thought about many coats of poly but not sure that would do it.

Thanks!

FYI the bottom portion of the log is hollow with anywhere from 1.5" to 2" thickness in the front wall.

Maybe carve a half Bear (top or bottom your choice) out of another log, have it coming out of or going into the center of that one, then fasten the outside of the log to it somehow?

After posting and clicking away I had another thought

Two in one day, I need a nap now..

....cut into the limb coming off in the other direction a bears head, just his nose, forehead, and eyes peeking out from inside the limb. His big ol bottom could be sticking out the bottom opening like he is trying to climb thru but wont fit.

Have fun with it thats the most important part.

Nap Time

I would secure it to much wider base ,put a plant in the hole, and swear I planned the whole thing!

Don't forget drain holes in the base, if you try this....Best of luck..R.L.

The chrome eyes stick out

I like the carving working it out of a damaged piece of wood
Great job

Ever use pc-7? Its a great putty consistency epoxy that stands up to weather well and you can get in larger quantities, like quart size. It isn't cheap but it would seal up that void and make it as weather resistant as the rest of the wood, probably out last it as well. PC-7 can be carved, drilled sanded and tapped to hold screw threads even. It could open a whole range of creative possiblities.

-Good luck

Glenn