Rob,
Don't be shy, we'd love to see pics of yourwork, and it only helps you to grow.
"GRIZZ"

I really like your artwork. I have been trying to learn similar skills but not there yet. I also like the frame. It looks like you burned and wire brushed it and left in the natural imperfections. A pleasing combination.

Don,
I watch for old beams and such to use for the frames of my repousse'. I usually just wire brush them to remove loose paint and bring out the grain and then seal it with linseed oil. Thanks for the comments.
"GRIZZ"

The reason for my comment is I used to go camping, do a chainsaw sculpture, throw it into the campfire, put it out, wire brush it to create the highs and lows in the grain of the wood. Repeat as necessary. It is a way of speeding up what nature does for us. At home I use BBQ fluid to burn the wood. I think wood combined metal is a good combination, and I hope to learn more.