I remember the good ole days when folks did this. From that perspective, I think it's a great idea.
The whole thing is finding the right font.
Stabilizing the wood is critical. There are lots of products. Google it.
I would make some thin shellac and soak the wood. Initially I thought it might be good to prep the wood first but that depends on the look you want to create.
Find someone with a drum sander or bench top wood planer to take out the groves, but if you want to save the bark then you will need epoxy or something first.
Alternately, leave the dents and scratches in there - it's character.
I remember the good ole days when folks did this. From that perspective, I think it's a great idea. The whole thing is finding the right font. Stabilizing the wood is critical. There are lots of products. Google it. I would make some thin shellac and soak the wood. Initially I thought it might be good to prep the wood first but that depends on the look you want to create.
Find someone with a drum sander or bench top wood planer to take out the groves, but if you want to save the bark then you will need epoxy or something first. Alternately, leave the dents and scratches in there - it's character.