Replies

1. 
   ring | Aug 19, 2005 10:34am | #1

   Rover,

   The subject is really too big to cover here.  I would suggest you read 2 or 3 good books on finishing, then try some traditional finishes out for yourself.  The fine antiques you are looking at are probably french polished.  But we can be a lot more helpful with very specific problems.

   DR

2. 
   Gretchen | Aug 19, 2005 01:50pm | #2

   Original fine antique pieces would not have a polyurethane finish. And as much as I disdain poly, it will not cause wood rot.

   Agree with the other poster.  Read some finishing books for a background. 

   Gretchen
3. 
   BenM | Aug 19, 2005 11:37pm | #3

   I have read that polyurethane over time can cause wood rot in furniture.

   Please provide the name of the publication.  I am in need of a good laugh.

   To get the type of finish you want you first need to properly prepare the wood surface, then apply the finish and then finish the finish (smooth it out).  As others have stated, read a good book; Understanding Wood Finishing by Bob Flexner is one.  The topic is not complicated but it is involved and the secret is attention to detail.

   
   

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   Edited 8/19/2005 4:38 pm ET by BenM