Faux Rosewood Finish on Saw Handles

I have found a simple way to do a faux rosewood finish on handles.  This one is a saw handle that was in really poor condition, and I used it to describe the method I use, and not as an example of the better handles I have done.

This process requires red and blue analine dyes, and some garnet shellac.  Begin by cleaning and finish sanding the handle as well as possible. Then apply 2 coats of red analine dye. This always looks terrible. 

Then apply blue dye until you get a dark purple color.

Then apply garnet shellac.  The transformation when the garnet shellac goes on is amazing.

I finished this with clear lacquer. A beautiful look for an ugly old handle. Saw handles don’t have to be ugly.