live edge table top knots and bark question

[Mark Almeidus]

I have a piece of live edge wood with bark on it. I want to make a coffee table, but before i start i want to know whats the best way to deal with those kind of knots, and keep the bark if possible? I dont want to make a mess of my hand planes and irons. Also is it a good idea to use varnish directly on the bark?
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[Brian Holcombe]

Mark,

I like the 'peeled post' style of finishing live edges, so I use a combination of spoke shave, paring chisel and wire brush. It results in a similar effect to a bark-peeled post in timberframe.

Cheers,
Brian

[Mark Almeidus]

Is it a good idea to use a normal wood glue to glue the bark with the wood? Ofcourse first to remove the bark, clean it and glue it back?

[Brian Holcombe]

I don't know of anyone who retains the bark, I remove it and prep that surface.