tracing template onto sapele mahogany and selectvely removing tape. veneer reinforced with tape on both sides because cutting cross-grain
inlay all stripes and remove tape from pale veneer. cover entire piece with sealing layer of epoxy to lock the red sapele fibers in place before removing the backing tape; the veneer would have come to pieces if removing the tape without reinforcement.
spines cut from the below piece. fins made by epoxying red/black together and then cutting rods before pulling into shape using tape and sealing with epoxy