The design on the rawhide is walnut stain applied at angles to one another. I'll get some more detailed pics after I decide what I'm gonna do on the handle (hate to cover it up, but I have to cause of the rawhide splice.) I've got a piece of brain tan that I'm workin on now and I might give it a stain and use that. I really hate to use commercial tanned leather any more. Overall, I'm pleased with the way it turned out. Just a few more final touches and it's gonna be headed home.