Dyeing Wood?

[Cameroo]

I can't imagine why a feller would possibly want to change the natural appearance of a yew bow. You're nuts!

I use Minwax Wipe-On polyurethane on my bows. It's very easy to apply and dries really fast between coats (and no, it won't crack). A lot of my bowyer friends use shellac and True oil for a finish

[johnv474]

I successfully dyed some oak with vinegar black aka vinegaroon. It was matte black/dark gray until I waxed and polished. I may have soaked it in black tea to increase the tannin content, though. I know this isn't purple, but it should be permanent.