It came out great Matt! Glad you went with the Walnut backer.
You should always finish the back side of your projects with the Same finish and amount of coats. Even with a finish, wood will absorb moisture. With equal finish on front and back, you will minimize the chance of the piece warping.
Another winner Paul, love that wood!
Paul, if you drill an 1/8" hole centered on the line at the bottom of the bird, before you cut, it will give you a notch for the bird to sit on the Perch. This makes gluing the bird easier.
I have the worst hand writing in the world, so nothing gets my signature. I have a branding iron that says " Handcrafted by Dan Gallo".
If the project is to small for the brand, like ornaments and the mini birdhouses, they go out in the world naked.
Nice work Paul! I'm glad you've taken the plung into scroll saw mini birdhouses! I agree with the hole size. I have been drilling then at 3/8" for a couple of years now. I usually use bright colored woods for the birds like Yellowheart, Redheart and purpleheart.
Like you, I have turned mini birdhouses too. I still have a small display set up. Maybe I'll get a picture and post them.
Great job Rob! You did an excellent job on the pattern too! It looks just like a GT Mustang. Have you ever seen one in person? You still see them on the road around here!