Cleaning sinew back before adding new layer?

[Tanneur]

This is a sinew backed bow that is finished tillering.



I would like to add another layer of sinew. I wonder if after all that tillering with bare fingers I should not clean the back (that is the last layer) before adding another layer? What do you think? Or should I just go on, seizing the back with hide glue and than adding the additional layer?

[BowEd]

I always do.Just giving it a light overall sanding with 100 grit paper is all to a fresh surface.Size it a couple of times then add the next layer.Never had it debond then.Looking good.

[PatM]

You can just wahs it with soap and how water. Rinse it and then size it while still damp.

[Tanneur]

Beadman and PatM thank you. How about a light wipe with acetone? Any risk of harming the sinew?

[PatM]

Acetone  won't harm sinew but you'll get it cleaner with soap and water and you need to re-activate the glue surface anyway.

[Tanneur]

Thanks Pat. Excellent argument.

[bradsmith2010]

I have also done it both ways,, with success,, acetone does not seem to be a good idea,, if the other methods are good,,